Second Opinion Before Spinal Surgery

By Randi Morse 

Undergoing any kind of surgery invites risk because there is no surgery that is 100 percent safe. Technology, along with better training for doctors and surgeons, has helped to make today's surgeons extremely qualified and lowers the risk of complications significantly. But no matter which way you look at it, any type of surgery is a risk, which means it's important to make sure that any surgery you undergo is an absolute necessity. If your doctor or surgeon has told you that you need to get back surgery, you may want to get a second opinion. 

Different Training 

Why would you want to get a second opinion when your surgeon has suggested that you undergo spinal surgery? To begin with, not every doctor or surgeon has the same training and abilities. One surgeon may tell you that it is necessary for you to go under the knife in order to cure your problem, while another may suggest a form of occupational or physical therapy instead. You may also have different personal goals than your surgeon does. You may want to avoid surgery and to find other ways to treat your pain while your surgeon is much more interested in operating. 

Local Interest 

Some surgeons have economic interests when it comes to surgery. This doesn't mean that they don't want the best for their patients, but it does mean that they may be looking at the financial aspect of surgery rather than what is in the patient's best interest. It's also important to note that your referring physician is likely going to favor a local surgeon who works in a local facility rather than a surgeon who works in a specialty clinic. Surgeons who work in specialty clinics often have access to technology and training that local surgeons do not. 

Avoiding Surgery Completely

It is important to know that spinal surgery may not be a necessity. Before you undergo surgery, make sure that you work with your doctor to look at every possible health care option available to you. For example, a visit to your chiropractor may be able to help you alleviate your pain, which can hold off surgery or make it completely unnecessary. Even if surgery is eventually a necessity, a visit to your local chiropractor can often help you keep the pain in check until you're able to find a surgeon you truly trust, or until the timing for surgery is better.

Patients who see a chiropractor before a general practitioner are far more likely to not need surgery, according to one study. Given the drastic action of surgery, chiropractic care is a plausible and worthwhile option for consideration.  

Never feel bad about getting a second opinion. Getting a second opinion doesn't mean that you don't trust your doctor, it just means that you're being your own advocate and ensuring that any treatment you get adheres to your wishes and your schedule. 

To see a chiropractor who may help you avoid the need for surgery, drop into one of the nearly 500 locations nationally of The Joint Chiropractic. The Joint doesn't require an appointment so you can see a chiropractor immediately.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Canton, Ohio.