Surgery for Low Back Pain Due to Sciatica: Understanding Success Rates and Alternatives - A Chiropractor's Perspective

As a chiropractor, I often see patients who have been advised to undergo surgery for low back pain caused by sciatica. While surgery can be a viable option in certain cases, it is important to understand the success rates and potential alternatives before making a decision.

Sciatica is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back, hips, and legs. It is often caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, which can put pressure on the sciatic nerve. When conservative treatments such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, and medication fail to provide relief, surgery may be recommended.

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft, jelly-like material inside a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in the outer layer. This can cause compression or irritation of nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area.

The most common cause of a herniated disc is age-related wear and tear of the spine, known as disc degeneration. Other factors that may contribute to a herniated disc include improper lifting techniques, repetitive twisting or bending motions, obesity, and genetics.

In addition to non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care, physical therapy, and medication, surgery may be recommended in severe cases of herniated discs that do not respond to conservative treatment. However, it's important to note that surgery carries its own risks and may not always result in complete pain relief or functional improvement.

The success rate of surgery for low back pain due to sciatica varies depending on several factors. According to a study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, patients who underwent surgery for sciatica had a success rate of 69%, which means that 31% of patients did not experience significant improvement or had worse outcomes. Other studies have reported success rates ranging from 50% to 85%.

It is important to note that surgery is not the only option for treating sciatica. Chiropractic care, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercise, can help alleviate pain and improve mobility without the risks and recovery time associated with surgery. In fact, a study published in the European Spine Journal found that chiropractic care was just as effective as surgery for treating sciatica.

As a chiropractor, I take a holistic approach to treating low back pain and sciatica. I work with my patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes conservative therapies, such as chiropractic care, before considering surgery as a last resort. By addressing the underlying causes of the condition and promoting overall health and wellness, we can achieve long-lasting results without resorting to invasive procedures.

In conclusion, while surgery may be a necessary option for some cases of low back pain due to sciatica, it is important to understand the success rates and potential alternatives before making a decision. As a chiropractor, I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal health and wellness through conservative, personalized care.

Dr. Jimmy Sayegh, DC
Licensed Chiropractic Physician
King of Cracks

​Keywords: sciatica, low back pain, surgery, success rates, chiropractic care, holistic, personalized treatment, conservative therapies, spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise, health and wellness.

References:

• Davis H, et al. Successful surgery for sciatica. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2000;82(7):983-986.
• McMorland G, et al. Manipulation or microdiskectomy for sciatica? A prospective randomized clinical study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2010;33(8):576-584.
• NINDS. Herniated Disk. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Herniated-Disk-Fact-Sheet. Accessed September 14, 2021.
• Mayo Clinic. Herniated disk. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095. Accessed September 14, 2021.
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Lumbar Herniated Disc. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/lumbar-herniated-disc. Accessed September 14, 2021.