Ask the Doctor
Q: I have off-and-on episodes of back pain, sometimes mild and sometimes pretty bad. I've put off seeing a doctor because I'm not sure what to expect and I don't want to have surgery. What are my other options?
A: Contrary to common belief, very few back pain patients go on to have surgery – in fact, only a small percent need to have an operation. Generally, a Texas Back Institute doctor will examine you and take your history. If serious problems such as tumor or infection, which are rare, are ruled out, most patients receive care in the form of medication, physical therapy, and education about activities to reduce and/or prevent back pain. For many patients, this course of treatment provides acceptable relief. If significant pain persists, the doctor may order an MRI scan or other diagnostic tests to help determine where the pain is coming from. Injections into different areas of the spine (epidural injections, facet joint blocks, nerve root blocks) may need to be performed. If you have significant leg pain, one or more epidural steroid injections may be done to reduce painful inflammation around nerves in your back that pass into your legs. Surgery is generally not considered an option until after non-operative treatments have failed. Remember, the majority of spine surgery performed to treat pain is elective. That is, it is always your choice whether to have surgery, and only after you and your doctor have discussed options and potential risks.