⚠️ Back Pain: When is Spine Surgery Actually Required?

Surgery isn't always a "last resort." Sometimes, it is the only way to prevent permanent paralysis. Here are the 4 clear signs it is time to consider surgery.

🚨 1. The Emergency "Red Flags"

Act immediately (within 24-48 hours) if you have:

• Cauda Equina Syndrome: Loss of bladder/bowel control.
• Saddle Anesthesia: Numbness in groin or inner thighs.
• Foot Drop: Sudden inability to lift your foot.

⏳ 2. When Rehab Fails (6-12 Weeks)

If you have tried medication, physiotherapy, and rest for over 6 weeks with zero relief, the mechanical issue likely needs a mechanical fix.

⚡ 3. Unbearable Leg Pain (Sciatica)

When a disc crushes a nerve, the leg pain is often worse than the back pain. Surgery (Decompression) is needed if you have:

• Constant numbness or "pins and needles."
• Muscle wasting (one leg looks smaller).
• Inability to walk more than 5 minutes.

🏗️ 4. Spinal Instability

If the bones have slipped out of alignment (Spondylolisthesis) or are fractured, medicines cannot realign them. Stabilization surgery is required to fix the structure.