If a person has a herniated disk, sometime surgery can relive the pain that is associated with the condition. One side effect can be a loss of spinal flexibility. Why does this occur?
When a person undergoes surgery to treat a herniated disk, one of the potential side effects can indeed be a loss of spinal flexibility. This occurs due to several factors.
1. Removal of the Herniated Portion: During surgery, the herniated portion of the disk, which is pressing on the spinal nerves, may be removed. The removal of this portion reduces the pressure on the nerves, relieving the associated pain. However, this removal also alters the structure of the disk, making it lose some of its original height and thickness. As a result, the affected vertebrae may become more compressed, leading to a reduction in spinal flexibility.
2. Fusion of Vertebrae: In certain cases, spinal fusion surgery may be performed to stabilize the spine after the removal of the herniated portion. Spinal fusion involves connecting two or more vertebrae using bone grafts, metal plates, or screws. This fusion restricts the movement between the fused vertebrae, reducing spinal flexibility.
3. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue may develop around the surgical site and adjacent structures. This scar tissue can affect the movement of the spine, inhibiting its flexibility. Scar tissue tends to be less elastic than the original tissue, making the spine less mobile.
It's important to note that not everyone who undergoes surgery for a herniated disk will experience a significant loss of spinal flexibility. The extent of loss depends on various factors, such as the surgical technique used, the location and severity of the herniation, and the individual's overall health and rehabilitation process.
To get more detailed information about the impact of surgery on spinal flexibility and the individual factors that may influence it, consulting with a medical professional, such as a spine surgeon or physical therapist, would be advisable. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on the specific circumstances of the person in question.