Using a belt for long periods of time can lead to the abdominal and spinal muscles becoming weak which are then unable to provide sufficient support to the spine. Back exercises that strengthen muscles and support the spine are advisable.
In the world of spinal health and surgical advancements, Dr. Pavan Jain, a renowned Neurosurgeon based in Jaipur, is on a mission to dispel common myths surrounding spine-related ailments and shed light on the latest innovations in Safe Spine Surgery (SSS). As a specialist in the field, Dr. Jain shares his expertise to empower individuals with accurate information, ensuring they make informed decisions regarding their spinal well-being.
MYTH 1: COMPLETE BED REST
REALITY: For individuals experiencing acute pain (lasting a few days to three weeks), restricting activities for a few days may help the pain subside. However, enforced bed rest for over one or two days is not recommended. For persons suffering from chronic pain (more than three months), bed rest does not provide long-term relief and may actually provoke the chronicity of the pain.
MYTH 2: NO FORWARD BENDING
REALITY: Avoiding bending and other day-to-day activities increases the disability associated with back pain. Individuals with back pain can bend down to pick up objects from the floor by bending their knees (using a half squat).
MYTH 3: SLEEP ONLY ON HARD SURFACE
REALITY: It is advisable to sleep on a comfortable and firm mattress that supports the natural curves of the spine. Using a mattress that is either too soft or too hard will not support the natural curves of the back.
MYTH 4: AVOID USING A PILLOW
REALITY: People who sleep on their sides will most certainly need a pillow to maintain the alignment of the neck. However, a very thick pillow can increase neck pain by twisting the neck.
MYTH 5: TRACTION IS THE ONLY CURE
REALITY: Recent research has shown that traction does not provide any benefit and is without rationale. In addition, traction may also be harmful if the spine is unstable.
MYTH 6: PAINKILLERS TREAT BACK PAIN
REALITY: Painkillers are useful for reducing short-duration back pain (lasting less than a few weeks). However, long-term use of pain medications has side effects like gastric (stomach) irritations, stomach ulcers, etc.
MYTH 7: EXERCISE IS HARMFUL FOR NECK AND BACK PAIN
REALITY: Recent scientific studies have shown that passive treatments (where the therapist does all the work), such as massage and electrotherapy (TENS, ultrasound massage, Interferential Therapy (IFT), and Short-Wave Diathermy (SWD), are not effective.
MYTH 8: SPINAL BELT/CORSET
REALITY: Using a belt for long periods of time can lead to the abdominal and spinal muscles becoming weak which are then unable to provide sufficient support to the spine. Back exercises that strengthen muscles and support the spine are advisable.
MYTH 9: SPINE SURGERY IS A TABOO
REALITY: In today’s age spine surgery is as safe as any other surgery. The use of modern scans, an improved understanding of spinal pathology, better surgical instruments, and well-trained surgeons have improved the results of spine surgery.
MYTH 10: AFTER SPINE SURGERY, ONE CAN NEVER LEAD A NORMAL LIFE
REALITY: In earlier times, three to six months of bed rest following spine surgery was the norm. In today’s times, the duration of stay in hospital for spine surgeries has taken a paradigm shift to a daycare surgery with advanced techniques like O-Arm (SSS) and patients are able to sit, stand, and walk prior to discharge. However, bending and lifting may be delayed for a few months. The aim of surgery is to restore the patient to normalcy.
O-ARM: A COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR SAFE SPINAL SURGERY
O-Arm is a mobile X-ray system designed for 3D imaging. It provides visibility that allows surgeons to be ultra-precise, helping them pinpoint problems and take care of them with minimal impact on the patient.
This imaging system has revolutionized spinal surgery, providing surgeons with the ability to precisely navigate complex surgical situations in a way that was not previously possible. This makes spine surgery more precise and safer in today's era.
Another significant advantage of the O-arm™ is that it enables surgeons to check in real-time whether they have placed devices correctly or to take another image after removing something during surgery. If surgeons notice something additional that needs correction or removal, they can address it while the patient is still under anesthesia, avoiding the need for another procedure and ensuring the most accurate surgical confirmation.
In conclusion, dispelling the myths surrounding spine health and embracing advancements in Safe Spine Surgery is crucial for informed decision-making and improved well-being. Dr. Pavan Jain's insights have illuminated the path to a healthier spine, debunking misconceptions and emphasizing the safety and precision offered by cutting-edge technologies like the O-Arm. With these facts in hand, individuals can confidently navigate their spinal health journey, knowing that a normal, pain-free life is not just a dream but an achievable reality in today's world of medical innovation.