Back Surgery
Advanced surgical solutions for chronic back pain, nerve compression, and spine instability, with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.
If back pain, sciatica, or nerve symptoms are keeping you from living normally, you may be searching for a clear answer and a real plan.
At Spine Specialists of Michigan, our team provides both surgical and non-surgical options.
When surgery is clinically appropriate, we use proven techniques and innovative technologies designed to reduce pain, restore function, and improve long-term outcomes.
Michigan: (248) 792-9496 |
Florida: (407) 487-8610
When Is Back Surgery Recommended?
Back surgery is not the first step for most patients.
However, when conservative treatments are not providing relief, or when symptoms worsen, surgery may be the most effective option.
Common reasons surgery may be recommended
- 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
Urgent symptoms that require immediate evaluation
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Sudden or worsening weakness
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Severe pain after trauma or injury
- Rapidly worsening neurological symptoms
These symptoms may indicate a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention.
Conditions Back Surgery Can Treat
Back surgery is used to relieve pressure on nerves, stabilize the spine, or correct structural problems.
Your diagnosis will guide 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
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows and compresses nerves.
It often causes leg pain, heaviness, and symptoms that worsen with walking or standing.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Disc degeneration can contribute to chronic pain and reduced mobility.
Not all degeneration requires surgery, but in select cases surgery can provide significant relief.
Spondylolisthesis / Instability
When vertebrae shift out of place, it can compress nerves and create mechanical pain.
Stabilization procedures may be recommended depending on severity.
Spinal Deformity
Certain deformities can affect posture, mobility, and nerve function.
Surgical correction may be discussed when symptoms are severe.
Chronic Nerve Compression
Long-term nerve compression can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, and loss of function.
Early evaluation improves the chance of recovery.
Back Surgery Options
There is no one-size-fits-all procedure.
Our team recommends surgery only when clinically appropriate and when it matches your diagnosis, imaging, and goals.
Decompression Procedures
Decompression relieves pressure on spinal nerves and may be recommended for stenosis or disc-related nerve pain.
- Laminectomy / laminotomy
- Microdiscectomy
- Foraminotomy
Stabilization Procedures
When instability is present, stabilization may be recommended to reduce mechanical pain and protect nerves.
- Spinal fusion (when appropriate)
- Hardware placement for stability
- Motion-preserving options in select cases
If you are researching technology-supported procedures, explore:
Innovative Technologies.
Minimally Invasive Back Surgery
When appropriate, minimally invasive spine surgery may reduce muscle disruption and shorten recovery time.
Smaller incisions can also mean less post-operative discomfort and a faster return to activity.
Technology-supported precision
We offer advanced technology options that support precision and planning, including robotic guidance for clinically indicated cases.
Learn more:
Robotic Surgery
What to Expect
Before Surgery
- Comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis
- Review of imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray)
- Discussion of options, risks, and expected outcomes
- Clear plan for preparation and recovery
After Surgery
- Post-operative follow-up and progress monitoring
- Recovery plan tailored to your procedure
- Physical therapy may be recommended for mobility and strength
- Long-term strategies to prevent flare-ups
Our team focuses on helping you return to daily activity safely and confidently.
Back Surgery FAQ
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 require 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.
Spine Specialists of Michigan offers in-office physical therapy services.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Call (248) 792-9496 or request online at
Schedule An Appointment.
Locations
Michigan Location
Bingham Farms
32270 Telegraph Rd. Suite 110
Bingham Farms, MI 48025
Phone: (248) 792-9496
Fax: (248) 792-9628
Florida Location
Orlando
8810 Commodity Circle, Suite 25
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: (407) 487-8610
Fax: (407) 487-8605
Florida Location
Hollywood
3700 Washington St., Suite 400
Hollywood, FL 33021
Phone: (407) 487-8610
Fax: (407) 487-8605