Need an Example of How Invasive Back Surgery Really is? Look at Tiger Woods

Many people believe back surgery is a ‘cure-all’ remedy for virtually any spinal condition.

This couldn’t be further from the truth. While it is necessary to treat some conditions, even the most simple, common procedures are highly invasive and carry a wide range of risks.

It’s why ChiroSolutions Center always advocates chiropractic for Virginia Beach patients, before recommending any invasive surgeries to correct spinal problems.

A famous example

In early 2014, golfing legend Tiger Woods underwent his first surgery on back, to relieve a pinched nerve.

While pinched nerves are usually healed with more conservative, non-invasive treatments, Woods opted for a surgical procedure.

In September 2015, less than two years after the first surgery, Woods went back under the knife to have the exact same operation performed, in the exact same location, for a second time.

The surgery’s repetition caused some to speculate whether something had gone wrong during the initial operation, or if the surgeon hadn’t performed their duty correctly.

In actuality, the surgery was a complete success—which is why this case demonstrates the limited usefulness of back surgery when it comes to treating pinched nerves, slipped discs and other common spinal problems.

The many risks associated with surgery

There’s no shortage risks associated with even the simplest, most routine back surgeries.

While an operation may be necessary in some cases, it should always be thought of as a last resort.

Here are just some of the risks commonly associated with back surgery all patients should be aware of:

• You may need to repeat the surgery: Even if the operation is a success, there’s a chance you may need to repeat the surgery, as Tiger Woods’ experience indicates. Surgery doesn’t address the root causes of spinal issues. In most cases, it treats the symptoms.
• There’s a potential for nerve damage: Back surgery is invasive. Even routine operations carry risks, including the risk of nerve damage. Skilled surgeons may accidentally clip nerves while working on the spine. This could cause incontinence, issues with sexual performance, pain, numbness, and discomfort later.
• You could develop herniated discs: Inflammation caused by the surgery, or a change to the structure of the discs during the operation, could result in herniated discs. This may exacerbate existing back problems and lead to further surgeries in the future.
• Anesthetic reactions could occur: During back surgery, you’ll likely be put to sleep using anesthesia. While anesthesia is largely safe, there are risks associated with its use. Mild reactions include vomiting in the hours after surgery, while more severe reactions include nerve damage and hyperthermia.
• There might be no change to your condition: That’s right, your surgery may not have any effect at all! It’s not uncommon for patients to get back on their feet, only to experience no change in their condition. It’s wasted time and money, coupled with unnecessary risk.

There’s a reason chiropractic care is recommended first. It’s a non-invasive treatment methodology addressing the root cause of problems related to the back and spine.

Seek relief before surgery

If you’ve been recommended back surgery, consider consulting with a chiropractor for a second opinion, first.

ChiroSolutions Center can advise on the proper course of action through a Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) plan.

If you’re looking for a safe, non-invasive potential alternative to surgery in Virginia Beach, consult with our professional chiropractors today.

Chiropractic BioPhysics, or CBP, is one of the most scientific, researched, and results-oriented corrective care techniques. CBP-trained chiropractors aim to realign the spine back to health, eliminating nerve interference and addressing the source of pain, fatigue, and disease. As with all chiropractic care, CBP is gentle, painless, and non-invasive.

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