If you are dealing with chronic back pain, you might feel like surgery is your only option. However, understanding why back surgery should be avoided whenever possible is crucial for your long-term health and recovery. At Back on Track Therapy, we believe in empowering our patients in Lima and Shawnee, OH, to explore non-invasive treatments that treat the root cause of pain rather than just the symptoms.
Deciding to undergo spinal surgery is a massive life event that carries significant risks. While it may be necessary in extreme emergencies, many experts and studies suggest that conservative care—like physical therapy—often yields better long-term results without the complications of going under the knife. Before you schedule a procedure, it is vital to understand the potential downsides of surgery and the benefits of natural healing.
The Hidden Risks of Spinal Surgery
Back surgery is not a guaranteed fix. In fact, the medical community has a specific term for when these procedures do not provide the expected relief: Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). This condition affects a significant percentage of patients who undergo spinal operations, leaving them with the same pain—or sometimes even worse pain—than before the surgery.
Surgical Complications
Any surgery carries inherent risks, such as infection, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Spinal surgery, specifically, involves working around sensitive nerves and the spinal cord. One slip or unforeseen complication can lead to nerve damage, numbness, or loss of mobility.
Long Recovery Times
Recovery from back surgery is rarely quick. It often involves weeks or months of downtime, heavy reliance on pain medication, and a long, painful rehabilitation process. This downtime can lead to muscle atrophy (weakening), making it even harder to regain full function later.
Addiction Risks
Post-surgical pain management often relies on opioids. With the current opioid crisis, avoiding situations where strong narcotics are necessary is a wise health decision. Opting for natural pain management through physical therapy eliminates this risk entirely.
Why Physical Therapy is a Smarter Choice
Choosing physical therapy over surgery isn’t just about avoiding risk; it is about actively choosing a path that strengthens your body. At Back on Track Therapy, we have helped thousands of people in the Lima area get back to their active lives without surgical intervention.
Treating the Root Cause
Surgery often attempts to fix a structural issue, like a herniated disc. However, pain is complex. It often stems from muscle imbalances, poor posture, or movement patterns that surgery cannot correct. Our Physical Therapy services focus on identifying these underlying issues. By correcting how you move, we stop the pain at its source.
Personalized Recovery Plans
No two backs are the same. A surgeon might apply the same procedure to ten different people, but a physical therapist will design ten different plans. Whether you need Orthopedic Therapy for arthritis or Sports Rehab for an athletic injury, your treatment is tailored to your specific body and goals.
Cost-Effectiveness
Surgery is expensive. Even with insurance, the co-pays, hospital stays, and time off work add up quickly. Physical therapy is a far more cost-effective solution. In Ohio, you can even see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral for up to 10 visits or 45 days, saving you time and money on unnecessary specialist co-pays.
Natural Pain Relief Techniques
One of the main reasons patients rush into surgery is the desire for immediate pain relief. We understand that living with pain is exhausting. That is why we utilize advanced, non-invasive techniques to manage pain effectively from day one.
Dry Needling
For tight muscles and trigger points, Dry Needling is a game-changer. By inserting a sterile, thin needle into the muscle, we can release tension immediately, improving blood flow and reducing pain signals.
Cupping Therapy
Used by top athletes, Cupping helps increase soft tissue mobility. It draws blood to the affected area, promoting healing and loosening stiff muscles that may be compressing your spine.
The Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill
Movement is medicine, but moving when you are in pain is hard. Our clinic in Lima features the Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill, which allows you to walk or run with reduced body weight. This lets you strengthen your back and legs without the impact that causes pain, bridging the gap between injury and full activity.
Our 4-Phase Recovery Program
At Back on Track Therapy, we don’t just guess; we follow a proven system. Our 4-Phase Recovery Program is designed to guide you from acute pain to lifelong health.
- Phase I: Pain Relief: We focus on calming down the inflammation and getting you comfortable using hands-on manual therapy.
- Phase II: Mobility & Strength: Once the pain subsides, we work on restoring your range of motion and building the core strength needed to support your spine.
- Phase III: Functional Training: We simulate real-life activities—lifting groceries, playing with grandkids, or running—to ensure your back can handle your daily life.
- Phase IV: Injury Prevention: We equip you with the tools and knowledge to maintain your health independently, ensuring the pain doesn’t return.
Real Stories from Lima Locals
You don’t have to take our word for it. We are proud to have over 100 5-star reviews from neighbors right here in Lima and Shawnee who avoided the operating room.
Many of our patients came to us with a surgery date already scheduled, looking for a last resort. After completing their personalized therapy plans, they canceled their surgeries and returned to living pain-free. As Dr. Cameron Dennis, our owner and physical therapist, often says, we are problem solvers. If you are confused about whether you need surgery, injections, or just rest, we are here to help you find the answers.
When Should You Consider Surgery?
While we advocate for conservative care, there are rare instances where surgery is necessary. These usually involve “red flag” symptoms such as loss of bowel or bladder control, progressive neurological deficits (like severe weakness in a leg), or unremitting pain that has not responded to high-quality conservative care over a long period. However, for the vast majority of back pain cases—including herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis—physical therapy should always be the first line of defense.
Take the First Step Toward Natural Healing
If you are tired of pain and worried about the risks of surgery, it is time to get a second opinion that focuses on your body’s natural ability to heal. You deserve a life free from pain and limitations.
Don’t let back pain dictate your future or force you into a procedure you might not need. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation. We aim to get patients in within 24 hours, often offering same-day appointments.
Ready to get Back on Track?
Request an appointment online or call our Lima/Shawnee clinics at (567) 356-4385. Let us help you heal naturally.
