Spinal fusion is an operation for the treatment of back conditions like lumbar spinal stenosis. Experts estimate that around 103 million people worldwide suffer from this degenerative condition.
A spinal fusion can prevent stenosis symptoms from progressing. But this surgery also comes with some severe side effects. Many people face permanent restrictions after spinal fusion.
What kind of restrictions are we talking about? We will explain them in this guide so that you feel empowered to choose if this treatment is right for you.
How Spinal Fusion Procedures Work
During a spinal fusion procedure, doctors fuse or join tilted vertebrae into a single bone. Some patients may also require a metal rod to keep the new bone upright and in place.
Potential Side Effects of a Spinal Fusion
All surgical procedures come with potential side effects, some more severe than others. A spinal fusion is no exception. This type of back surgery comes with the potential for the following side effects:
- Spinal or peripheral nerve damage
- Bone infections
- Excessive blood loss
- Pain at the surgical site
- Changes to or loss of range of motion
There is also a risk of revision surgery. Revision surgery may be required when a previous procedure did not fix the issue. In this case, people who do not benefit from spinal fusion may require a second operation.
Read more on spinal fusion recovery in the linked guide to learn how to prevent or reduce these symptoms. In most people, these side effects last short term. But there are also long-term complications you need to understand.
Permanent Restrictions After Spinal Fusion Surgery
One of the most common long-term side effects of spinal fusion is loss of flexibility. This side effect may, in turn, lead to quality of life losses and mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
Because this procedure permanently fuses vertebrae together, patients may lose their range of motion in that area. For that reason, people who require more extensive fusions are more likely to experience this symptom.
Restrictions in your range of motion can make it challenging to bend and twist. Many people may also struggle to lift heavy objects. These side effects may restrict patients from enjoying activities they once did, explaining the potential impacts on quality of life and mental health.
Risk Factors
Some people are more likely to experience long-term restrictions after back surgery than others. The following risk factors make permanent restrictions more likely:
- Age
- General health
- Condition severity
- Location of fusion
- Surgical complications
If you are concerned about permanent restrictions after a spinal fusion, talk to your doctor. There may be alternative treatments or post-recovery strategies to reduce your risk of long-term complications.
Spinal Fusion Restrictions Are Not the End
A spinal fusion may be the best treatment if you have a back condition like spinal stenosis. But this procedure does not come without risks. Some patients experience permanent restrictions after spinal fusion procedures.
Are you searching for ways to feel healthier after back surgery? Check out our health and fitness articles to get your quality of life back on track.
