Do I Need Spine Surgery? 7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Introduction

Back and neck pain are common, and in most cases, they can be managed without surgery. However, there are times when spine surgery becomes not just an option—but a necessity. This guide outlines the key signs that may indicate you need to consult a spine surgeon.

When Is Spine Surgery Necessary?

Spine surgery is typically recommended when:

• Conservative treatments have failed.
  If physical therapy, medications, or injections haven’t improved your condition over several weeks or months, surgery may be the next step.

• Nerve compression is causing symptoms.
  Compression of spinal nerves can lead to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs—a sign that surgical intervention may be required.

7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

1. Severe or Persistent Pain
   Constant or worsening back or neck pain that limits your ability to function may be a surgical case.

2. Numbness or Tingling
   Sensory changes in the limbs, particularly if they follow a nerve distribution (like sciatica), suggest nerve involvement.

3. Muscle Weakness
   Weakness in the arms or legs may signal nerve damage. This is often a red flag that needs urgent surgical evaluation.

4. Difficulty Walking or Standing
   Spinal conditions like stenosis can make walking difficult, especially if your legs feel heavy or uncoordinated.

5. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
   This could be a sign of cauda equina syndrome—a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention.

6. Pain that Radiates Down the Legs or Arms
   Known as radiculopathy, this symptom can result from a herniated disc or spinal stenosis pressing on a nerve root.

7. Visible Deformity or Instability
   Conditions such as scoliosis or spondylolisthesis may require correction if they are progressing or symptomatic.

When to See a Spine Specialist

If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, it’s important to consult a spine specialist. They will perform a physical exam and review imaging (like MRI or X-rays) to determine if surgery is the right choice.

Conclusion

While many spine conditions can be treated without surgery, ignoring serious symptoms may lead to long-term damage. If your pain is worsening or affecting your quality of life, don’t delay—consult with a qualified spine specialist like Dr. Remi Ajiboye to understand your options and what’s best for your unique needs.. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. 

Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is considered one of the best board-certified spine surgeons in Los Angeles who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction. Dr Remi Ajiboye serves Torrance, El Segundo, Long Beach, and the surrounding communities of South Bay, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Lomita, San Pedro, Carson, Lawndale, Gardena, Hawthorne, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, South Gate, Lynwood, Compton, Los Alamitos, Westminster, Garden Grove, Lakewood, Cerritos, Bellflower, Downey, Paramount, Bellflower, Norwalk, Whittier, Santa Fe Springs, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Orange, Tustin, Fullerton, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and greater Los Angeles county and Orange County. Contact Remi Ajiboye, MD, online or over the phone to set up an appointment.

Author

Remi Ajiboye MD Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is a spine specialist who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction.