About This Blog:
- Spine conditions may put a heavy burden on patients, but not seeking treatment when needed can have serious, life-threatening implications.
- There are many reasons why people may put off surgery: it’s not financially feasible, it’s scary, the down-time required affects other life-related circumstances, i.e. work, etc.
- Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine discusses what can happen if a patient avoids or prolongs treatment.
Dr. Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine understands surgery, although minimally invasive, can put a heavy burden on patients and their families. As alluded to previously, many people may put off having surgery for financial or personal reasons, whether it be not financially feasible during the time it’s suggested, or fear of the actual procedure itself.
These are all legitimate worries, but Dr. Giovanini wants you to be aware of a few things: prolonging treatment can have serious consequences that may not only cost more for you down the road, but putting off surgery/treatment can also put your health at serious risk. Below are some of the repercussions of avoiding treatment.
Spinal Fractures
Patients may need surgery to repair or replace vertebral discs that have been damaged as a result of progressive, degenerative diseases like osteoporosis or osteoarthritis, or from a traumatic injury to the spine, like a fall or car accident. A minimally invasive procedure may be recommended to prevent further damage, especially since spinal fractures that are not treated right away have the potential to lead to additional, more debilitating fractures.
This may result in serve neck, back or hip pain, height loss, thoracic kyphosis (hunchback) and more!
Spine Conditions
Painful spine conditions that cause herniated or bulging vertebral discs that press against nerves in the spine, like spinal stenosis, can cause irreparable damage If treatment is not sought right away. Additionally, the more you put it off, the more pain and discomfort you’ll likely experience. Serious consequences can occur from herniated discs that are left for an extensive period of time, like permanent damage to areas of the spine and to the spinal cord, which could cause immobility or paralysis. Talk to Dr. Giovanini today to discuss your surgery concerns. He will always remain honest with you and tell you if you do or do not need treatment.
For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit http://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment. We hope to see you soon!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.