Finding Relief from Neck and Back Pain: Is Disc Replacement Surgery Right for You?
Chronic neck and back pain can be debilitating, making even the simplest daily tasks difficult. While many people find relief through conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication, others require surgery to address underlying spinal issues. For those facing surgery, disc replacement is emerging as a more effective alternative to traditional spinal fusion, preserving mobility and reducing the risk of future complications.
At Shore Physicians Group’s Neurosurgery Division, Penn Medicine neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Spadola specializes in treating spinal conditions with advanced surgical techniques, including cervical and lumbar disc replacement. If you are experiencing persistent pain that hasn’t improved with nonsurgical treatments, Dr. Spadola can help determine if disc replacement is the right solution for you.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
Neck and back pain can result from a variety of conditions, including degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and injuries. In many cases, these issues can be managed without surgery. However, if you are experiencing chronic pain, numbness, weakness, or reduced mobility, it may be time to consider surgical options.
For decades, spinal fusion was the go-to procedure for patients requiring surgery. While effective at stabilizing the spine, fusion limits mobility and can place added stress on adjacent discs, leading to further degeneration over time. Disc replacement offers a modern alternative that maintains natural spinal movement while effectively relieving pain.
Cervical vs. Lumbar Disc Replacement
Disc replacement surgery is designed to replace a damaged or degenerated spinal disc with an artificial one, allowing for normal motion in the spine. The procedure can be performed in two primary areas:
Cervical Disc Replacement (Neck)
- Used to treat herniated discs or degenerative disc disease in the neck
- Helps relieve pain, stiffness, and nerve compression that can cause weakness in the arms or hands
- Allows patients to maintain natural head and neck movement
Lumbar Disc Replacement (Lower Back)
- Aimed at treating degenerative disc disease in the lower spine
- Helps relieve lower back pain, sciatica, and leg numbness
- Preserves natural motion, reducing the likelihood of future disc problems in adjacent areas
Why Choose Disc Replacement Over Fusion?
Disc replacement offers several advantages compared to fusion surgery, including:
- Preserved Mobility – Unlike fusion, which restricts movement, disc replacement allows for normal spinal function.
- Lower Risk of Adjacent Segment Disease – Fusion increases stress on nearby discs, potentially causing future degeneration.
- Faster Recovery – Many patients experience a quicker return to daily activities compared to fusion surgery.
- Reduced Need for Future Surgeries – Because disc replacement maintains flexibility, it lowers the risk of requiring additional procedures later.
If you are struggling with persistent neck or back pain and want to explore disc replacement surgery, Dr. Michael Spadola at Shore Physicians Group’s Neurosurgery Division is here to help. As a Penn Medicine neurosurgeon, Dr. Spadola specializes in the latest spinal surgical techniques, ensuring that patients receive top-quality care tailored to their needs.
Dr. Spadola treats patients at 155 Medical Center Way, Somers Point, NJ, providing state-of-the-art spinal care in a convenient location. If you are considering surgery for neck or back pain, a consultation with Dr. Spadola could be your first step toward lasting relief and restored mobility.
To learn more or to book an appointment, contact Shore Physicians Group Neurosurgery Division today by calling 609.365.6239.
The contents of this article have been reviewed by Dr. Michael Spadola, a Penn Medicine neurosurgeon. Dr. Spadola treats patients at Shore Physicians Group’s Neurosurgery Division office located at 155 Medical Center Way in Somers Point, NJ. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Spadola, call 609-365-6239.
