Before every decision in favor of a method of treatment, a careful pain analysis must be made. For this purpose, the doctor questions the patient thoroughly concerning his or her pain and medical history (anamnesis). This is followed by a thorough physical examination. Previous therapeutic measures are analyzed according to their results, and current x-ray results and neurological examinations are taken into consideration, and expanded if necessary.

Afterwards, a decision must be made as to whether further diagnostic clarification is necessary. For instance, x-ray-guided diagnostic injections, x-rays in certain spinal postures, or additional computertomographic photographs of the affected spinal region could come into consideration.

Conservative methods of treatment, such as manual therapy, physiotherapy, and pain medication come into question first, as long as there are no neurological manifestations of failure or chronic occurrences of pain. Then come infusions and injection treatments, which are partially implemented under x-ray guidance.

If the pains don't recede after a few weeks despite all measures, then the Racz-catheter, intervertebral laser therapy, and heat probe treatment have proven effective. But what happens, if all these procedures don't bring the expected success despite careful diagnosis? Or, if in addition to the pain, paralysis of the arms and/or legs, or even bladder/rectal problems arise?

More links on this topic:

Visit our forum on back pain and spine related questions and search for: Modern spinal surgery

More about the achievements of spinal surgery? Download your complete Book on back pain

Continue reading... Endoscopic surgery