Surgical and Non-Surgical Spine Care
Back Surgery in Metro Detroit
If back pain, sciatica or nerve symptoms are keeping you from living normally, you deserve a clear answer and a real plan. Our team offers both surgical and non-surgical options, and when surgery is clinically appropriate we use proven techniques and innovative technologies to reduce pain and restore function.
When Surgery Makes Sense
When Is Back Surgery Recommended?
Back surgery is not the first step for most patients. When conservative treatments are not providing relief, or when symptoms worsen, surgery may be the most effective option. Common reasons include:
- Severe or persistent sciatica (radiating leg pain)
- Numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs
- Herniated disc symptoms that do not improve with conservative care
- Spinal stenosis causing difficulty walking or standing
- Spine instability or structural issues shown on imaging
- Chronic pain that limits daily function and quality of life
Conditions
Conditions Back Surgery Can Treat
Surgery is used to relieve pressure on nerves, stabilize the spine or correct structural problems. Your diagnosis guides which procedure is appropriate.
Herniated Disc
When disc material presses on a nerve it can cause severe back pain, sciatica and weakness. Surgery may remove the pressure and help restore nerve function.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal compresses nerves and often causes leg pain and heaviness that worsen with walking or standing.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Not all degeneration needs surgery, but in select cases surgery can provide significant relief from chronic pain.
Spondylolisthesis and Instability
When vertebrae shift out of place they can compress nerves and cause mechanical pain. Stabilization may be recommended.
Spinal Deformity
Some deformities affect posture, mobility and nerve function. Surgical correction may be discussed when symptoms are severe.
Chronic Nerve Compression
Long-term compression can cause numbness, weakness and loss of function. Early evaluation improves the chance of recovery.
Learn more about diagnoses on our Conditions page.
Procedures
Back Surgery Options
There is no one-size-fits-all procedure. We recommend surgery only when it matches your diagnosis, imaging and goals.
Decompression
Relieves pressure on spinal nerves for stenosis or disc-related nerve pain, including laminectomy or laminotomy, microdiscectomy and foraminotomy.
Stabilization
When instability is present, spinal fusion and hardware placement may be recommended to reduce mechanical pain and protect nerves.
Motion-Preserving Options
In select cases, implants such as coflex and Mobi-C relieve symptoms while maintaining motion.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Smaller incisions may reduce muscle disruption, post-operative discomfort and recovery time when appropriate.
Robotic Guidance
Technology that supports precision and planning in clinically indicated cases.
Physical Therapy After Surgery
Many patients benefit from post-operative therapy in our office to rebuild mobility and strength.
What to Expect
Before and After Surgery
Before Surgery
A comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis, a review of your imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray), a discussion of options, risks and expected outcomes, and a clear plan for preparation and recovery.
After Surgery
Post-operative follow-up and progress monitoring, a recovery plan tailored to your procedure, physical therapy for mobility and strength, and long-term strategies to prevent flare-ups.
New patients can prepare with our New Patient Forms.
How do I know if I need back surgery?
Surgery may be recommended if symptoms persist despite conservative care, if pain is severe and limiting, or if there are neurological symptoms like weakness or numbness. A spine evaluation and imaging review determine the best plan.
Is back surgery always the last option?
Many patients improve with non-surgical treatment first. Surgery is considered when conservative care fails or when symptoms require urgent correction.
How long is recovery after back surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure and your overall health. Some minimally invasive procedures have faster recovery timelines, while stabilization procedures may need longer healing and rehabilitation.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Many patients benefit from post-operative physical therapy to improve mobility, strength and long-term function. We offer physical therapy in our office.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Call (248) 792-9496 or request an appointment online.
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