Herniated Disc Too many operations

Herniated disc: surgery is not always necessary due to back pain

12/01/2012

According to statistics, about 80 percent of Germans suffer from back problems once in their lives. In many cases, a herniated disc is behind the sometimes severe pain. But even this diagnosis does not necessarily mean an operation.

Back pain is not only caused by herniated discs
The causes of back problems are manifold. They can be caused by hard physical exertions, such as long sitting at the desk and lack of exercise. Both are risk factors for the spine.

Back pain can be triggered by a herniated disc. In this case, material from the intervertebral disc in the spinal canal and can press on the nerve. A clear diagnosis is only possible by imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI or MRI).

Another cause of back pain is lumbago. This is a sudden, stabbing pain with subsequent restriction of movement. As a rule, narrowing or bruising of spinal cord nerves by vertebral bodies or tight muscles is the cause of lumbago.

In some cases, patients report back pain, which is however due to an organic disease, such as ulcer of the duodenum, coronary heart disease or salivary gland inflammation. In addition, back pain can be caused, among other things, by inflammation of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs, by tumors and degenerative diseases of the spine.

Physicians often advise conventional pain therapy
Back pain is still the most common reason for sick leave. In addition, 17 percent of all pension applications are now due to back problems. Hans-Peter Köhler, chief physician of neurosurgery and spine surgery at Asklepios Westklinikum Hamburg reports: „But not every backache means a herniated disc.“ The doctor advises those affected to have a detailed discussion about the symptoms with a doctor. He will then carry out the necessary investigations.

Due to the pronounced regenerative powers of the human body, the spine expert first advises on simple pain therapy. Before considering surgery in the event of a herniated disc, all conservative treatment options should be exhausted. The doctor explains: „A herniated disc is therefore no reason to panic.“

Health insurance companies prefer to pay expensive surgery instead of alternative treatments
However, when all other options are exhausted, surgery is usually an option. Orthopedist Martin Marianowicz, chairman of the German section of the World Institute of Pain in the United States reports: „There is still a lot of surgery.“ He criticizes: „At least 50 percent of all operations are redundant.“ Nevertheless, the surgery increased by about 400 percent last year, the orthopedist continues. Because only with operations is money to earn. Conservative, cheaper therapies would sometimes not even be covered by health insurance.

Alternative treatment options for back pain
In addition to physiotherapeutic measures, massages by sufferers are often perceived as beneficial. Furthermore, acupuncture, chiropractic and osteopathy can help with back problems. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, tai chi and progressive muscle relaxation are also recommended for back pain. In the back school affected persons learn appropriate movements for everyday life. (Ag)

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