Five Signs You Need to See a Back Surgeon
Injuries to the spine account for a significant percentage of all cases of disability globally. Even though you might think that the aches and pains you feel are because of stress or too much work, it can cause even more significant problems that can affect your life. So if you think there’s something wrong with your spine and it’s not just a normal lower back ache, we can help you out.
Here at Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery, we can help determine the cause of the problem and find the best solution for you. In the meantime, let’s know the five signs you may need to see a spine specialist today.
1. You Constantly Experience Numbness & Pain in Your Arm, Legs, Feet, or Hands
If you regularly experience numbness and pain in your extremities, it may be a sign of nerve compression that causes tingling, weakness, and numbness in your arms and legs. The compressed nerves cannot send signals properly from your brain to the rest of your body.
The main problem might be connected to your spine in the lumbar region. It can happen if you have a herniated slipped disc, a narrowing of the space within the spinal canal (called stenosis), or a bone spur. Therefore, going to a spine specialist can help determine any underlying cause and offer treatments to help you manage it.
2. You Have Difficulty Walking or Standing Up
The problem might be connected to your spine if you struggle to walk or stand up. When the pain is in your lower back, it can make mobility difficult. The following spinal problems might cause the symptoms:
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Arthritis of the Spine
- Osteoporosis
- Compression Fractures
In some cases, surgery might be recommended to take out a piece of the bone, causing pressure on the nerves.
3. Your Neck & Back are Always Aching
Even though not all spine problems cause pain at the site of injury or damage, some do. For instance, a slipped disc can cause pain or discomfort in the immediate area. Or maybe you had an accident, such as falling in your bathroom. If so, it won’t go away as quickly as you think, no matter how minor you thought it was. When the pain persists and doesn’t disappear after a few days, it’s a reason for you to go to a doctor.
4. You Have Bowel or Bladder Issues
Cauda equina syndrome is a condition due to compression of the nerves on the nerves at the base of the spinal column. It’s rare, but you must seek medical attention immediately. If you wait before seeing a doctor, it may cause irreparable damage.
Some of the symptoms are as follows:
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Numbness in the genital area
- Weakness in the legs
- Sexual dysfunction
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek a spinal surgeon immediately to find the best solution.
5. There’s a Change in the Alignment of Your Spine
Scoliosis is a spinal condition that’s the misalignment of the spine. Most of the time, scoliosis will appear in your preteenager years. However, it may also develop later in life due to degenerative disorders in the back. Fortunately, treatments such as therapy, surgery, or watching your doctor are available to ensure it doesn’t get worse.
Visit a Spine Surgeon to Have Your Spine Checked Today
Taking care of your spine is vital to avoid spine conditions that can cause disability. We at Texas Neuro-Spine Surgery have the best team of spine surgeons to give you the advice and treatment you need. Contact us today so we can analyze your problem right away.
