Back surgery might be appropriate in some cases of spine pain. Only 2%-5% of patients with low back pain require surgery:
Progressive neurological deficit - If you are getting worse and say you are losing muscle strength, it would be time to see a surgeon. Pain alone is not reason for surgery. There must be other signs such as reflex loss and muscle weakness. Cauda equina syndrome (CES)- If you lose control of your bowel/bladder function, it would be time to see a surgeon. (statistics on CES)
Keep in mind that though surgery is shown to sometimes provide faster relief, but at follow-up 10 years after surgery, little difference is noted in the daily functioning of patients who had back surgery vs those who chose a non-surgical route. (Atlas, Spine 30(8))
Your condition is individual. Your doctor at Medical Spine and Sports Injury and Rehab Centers will carefully examine you for any and all symptoms and recommend a treatment plan for you. If at any time in your care, your condition changes, tell us. We will monitor your condition and adjust the plan as required.