Patients diagnosed with facet syndrome as the source of their pain and other symptoms often wonder if spine surgery will ever be necessary. The decision to undergo a surgical procedure is one of the most important you can make and it is important to do so on as informed of a basis as possible if you are ever presented with it. Whether you have been recommended for facet syndrome surgery or you would simply like to learn more about it, the following are some basic facts to keep in mind about available procedures to treat this condition.

Why facet syndrome surgery is recommended

Facet syndrome surgery isn’t recommended for everyone who has been diagnosed with a facet joint condition. Actually, many people can improve their symptoms and return to their daily activities by using conservative, nonsurgical treatments like medication, physical therapy, posture improvement and therapeutic massage. Physicians will typically only recommend surgery for people who have severe symptoms but have not seen sufficient improvement in their symptoms after months of completing conservative treatments. All surgeries have inherent risks, so surgery is only suggested when the potential benefits of the procedure outweigh the possible problems.

Why surgery might provide relief where conservative options have not

Patients who haven’t found relief from nonsurgical options might wonder how surgery offers a chance at relieving their symptoms. Unlike conservative options, surgery can address symptoms at their source. For example, facet syndrome often leads to spinal bone spurs, which can narrow the spinal canal and cause nerve compression. Surgery can relieve this nerve pressure directly, addressing symptoms like pain, weakness and numbness.

What options are available?

If you are recommended for facet syndrome surgery but have concerns about undergoing a highly invasive traditional open spine surgery, reach out to USA Spine Care. Our minimally invasive spine surgery is a safer and effective alternative to traditional open neck or back procedures, offering our patients a streamlined outpatient experience and a shorter recovery time.^

Learn more by contacting our caring and dedicated team of Spine Care Consultants today for a no-cost MRI review* to determine if you are a potential candidate for one of our procedures.