Low Back Pain Showdown: Surgical vs Non-Surgical
Low back pain affects approximately 40–84% of adults during their lifetime. The good news – not all low back pain requires surgery. While it can significantly impact daily function and quality of life, the vast majority of cases do not require surgical intervention. A critical distinction lies in identifying the type and origin of the pain.
Mechanical or localized low back pain typically remains confined to the lower back and is often related to muscle strain, ligament sprain, or degenerative disc disease. However, if the pain radiates down the leg and is accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness, it may suggest lumbar radiculopathy, a condition where a nerve root in the lower back is compressed or irritated. Recognizing these differences is essential for guiding appropriate treatment and ensuring the best outcomes for patients.
Non-Surgical Treatments
To try to avoid surgery, it’s recommended to begin low back pain treatment with conservative, non-surgical methods. These include core-strengthening and stabilization exercises that build muscular support around the spine, proper body mechanics and ergonomics (such as safe lifting techniques) and posture education to reduce stress on the spine.
Evidence shows that a structured physical therapy program combining targeted stretches, stabilization exercises and ergonomic training are usually effective, and can help most patients recover without the need for surgery.
Interventional Pain Management (Non-Surgical Procedures)
Patients may consider interventional pain management – such as epidural steroid or nerve block injections. Dr. Jake Kraemer, an interventional pain physician at Orthopedic & Spine Centers of Wisconsin (OSCW), specializes in offering advanced, non-surgical symptom relief, providing patients with comprehensive pain management options.
“For many patients, interventional pain management options like epidural steroid or nerve block injections can offer significant relief,” said Dr. Kraemer. “Our goal is to reduce pain and improve function through advanced, non-surgical treatments. If these approaches don’t provide lasting relief, it may be time to re-evaluate with a spine surgeon to determine whether surgery is the next appropriate step.”
When Surgery May Be Necessary
Persisting pain after weeks of conservative care—especially with nerve involvement—may require surgical consultation. Our experts at OSCW, Dr. Jason Sansone and Dr. Thomas Zdeblick, specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, which use small incisions and tubular retractors to relieve nerve pressure with less tissue disruption.
Benefits of minimally invasive surgery may include less muscle damage, reduced postoperative pain, and a quicker return to regular activities for patients. Additionally, these patients typically have a lower risk of infection and minimal scarring, leading to a shorter hospital stay. Most patients report returning to daily activities within weeks.
Building a Comprehensive Low Back Pain Care Plan
A comprehensive low back pain care plan begins with accurate diagnosis, distinguishing between mechanical discomfort, nerve compression (radiculopathy), and degenerative conditions. Once the underlying cause is identified, our team can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. From that point, your care can begin with one of our experienced orthopedic specialists who will guide you through the most effective non-surgical or surgical options to relieve pain, restore function and improve quality of life.
If you’re experiencing persistent low back pain, call the Orthopedic and Spine Centers of Wisconsin at (608) 234-7436 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
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