The spine is one of the most important internal structures in our bodies, and as such, is one that is prone to problems and various medical conditions. Backache can affect people from all walks of life, with men and women of all ages and sizes prone to pains.
It is something that most people will experience at some point in their lives, and is just something that is part of the aging process. There are other reasons for it to occur in addition to aging, such as accidents, birth deformities and several others.
Some conditions of the back can be treated easily with medication and physiotherapy. Others that are much more serious and severe may require surgery. People will experience different levels of pain depending on the issue that they have, and in some cases, your day-to-day living may be seriously impaired.
If you are a chronic sufferer of backache and pains in the region, then it is most likely that you have tried the various non-surgical solutions offered by your doctor, but unfortunately, they have not been successful. It may be that your only other option is surgery to fix the problem. Whatever the issue is with you back, you will want to consult with a premier spine specialist to determine the best course of action for your condition.
There are two main types of surgeon who perform spine surgery on patients suffering from extreme pain and discomfort. These are orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons.
Orthopedic Surgeons
Orthopedics are doctors who are trained in the diagnosis, rehabilitation and treatment (both surgical and non-surgical) for issues that relate to the musculoskeletal system of the body. These include muscles, joints, tendons, nerves and ligaments. The parts of the body that they will specialize in include the spine, knees, hips, ankles, shoulders and elbows.
The majority of people who visit their doctors each year do so due to musculoskeletal pains that are the results of things such as injuries from sports, herniated discs, arthritis, osteoporosis and issues with the hand such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Neurosurgeons
Neurosurgeons are doctors trained in the diagnosis and surgical and non-surgical treatment of conditions related to the spinal cord, the nervous system, and of course, the brain. There are many nerve-related conditions that people can suffer from during their lifetimes, such as slipped discs, spinal cord injuries, neck pain, epilepsy, as well as more serious conditions such as aneurysms or brain tumors.
There are a number of different neurosurgical procedures that can be carried out on patients such as cervical spine surgery, nerve surgery, microvascular decompression, and the excision of brain tumors. During such procedures, it is very likely that a neurologist will be working with the neurosurgeon, and they often both use the same tools for diagnostics and the treatment of their patients.
Other medical professionals
In addition to the two types of surgeon, there are lots of other medical professionals who are involved at various stages during surgery on the spine. The Physiatrist will often offer a diagnosis to the patient, and offer non-surgical treatments. Many times they will perform an EMG (electromyography) on the patient to better understand the issues they are suffering and to evaluate the nerve functions. They can also help with the rehabilitation period and assist with physical, as well as mental issues that a patient may be suffering from.
Another key aspect in the rehabilitation period after a surgical procedure is physiotherapy. A physical therapist will help the patient through various exercises to help restore movement and function to the body. All physios will be trained in the manipulation of muscles and joints and will work to encourage full and proper usage. They can offer treatment by ultrasounds, as well as acupuncture and cold and hot therapy.
In some cases due to the nature of the condition and the rehabilitation needed for a full recovery, the services of a massage therapist may be required. These professionals are fully focused on the healing process and work on the soft tissues such as tendons and muscles, to increase blood circulation. There are many types of massage that can be performed on a patient such as deep tissue massage, Reiki, trigger point, and many others. It all depends on the condition that the patient is suffering from, and the surgical procedure that has taken place.
Spine surgery in particular is an extremely delicate procedure and one that is only carried out as a last resort. Your doctor should make you fully aware of all risks involved, as all surgical procedures carry an element of risk, and should advise you on the recovery period, as well as any side effects that you may encounter.
Final Words
As we conclude our discussion on the different types of spine surgeons, it’s important to recognize the diverse and specialized nature of this field. Spine surgery is a complex and intricate discipline that requires extensive training and expertise. The various types of spine surgeons work together to provide comprehensive care for patients with spinal conditions, aiming to improve quality of life and alleviate pain.
Orthopedic spine surgeons are skilled in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of spinal disorders. They typically have a background in orthopedic surgery and specialize in conditions related to the bones, joints, and muscles of the spine.
Neurosurgeons with a specialization in spine surgery focus on the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the nervous system, including the spine and spinal cord. They are trained to address complex spinal conditions and may work in collaboration with orthopedic spine surgeons to provide comprehensive care.
Some spine surgeons choose to pursue additional subspecialty training, such as pediatric spine surgery or spine oncology, to cater to specific patient populations or conditions. These specialized surgeons have extensive knowledge and experience in treating unique spinal conditions in their respective areas of expertise.
It is worth noting that advancements in technology and surgical techniques have allowed for the emergence of minimally invasive spine surgery specialists. These surgeons employ innovative methods that minimize tissue damage and promote faster recovery times for patients.
Ultimately, the choice of the type of spine surgeon depends on the specific condition and individual needs of the patient. It is crucial to consult with a qualified spine specialist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In conclusion, the field of spine surgery encompasses various types of surgeons with distinct backgrounds and expertise. Through their combined efforts, they strive to provide optimal care and improve the lives of individuals suffering from spinal disorders.