Like many people, you may have back and spine related conditions or issues. If that is the case, it is important for you to understand the different medical and related treatments and procedures that are available to you today when it comes to dealing with and resolving back and spine problems.One such course of treatment or procedure is what is known as spinal fusion. Through this article you are provided an overview of spinal fusion.
From a technical standpoint, spinal fusion begins with a surgical procedure that is undertaken to actually combine two or more vertebrae. In most cases, supplementary bone tissue is utilized in conjunction with the bone that is present at the site in question, at the location of the spine that is being fused. (This process is called a bone graft.)
Typically, spinal fusion is recommended and undertaken in order to resolve or eliminate the pain that is associated with certain types of spine and back issues or problems. Specifically, spinal fusion is utilized in order to relieve pain that arises from the abnormal motion of the vertebrae in question. This is accomplished through the immobilization of the vertebrae itself which is accomplished through the spinal fusion process.
Many times the spinal fusion process itself is supplemented by what is known as fixation. Fixation is the placement of metal screws, plates or rods during the spinal fusion procedure. These screws, plates or rods work to stabilize the vertebrae. This stabilization works to better ensure that the spinal fusion itself will be effective.
The actual fusion does not occur during or immediately after surgery. Spinal fusion really is a process that commences with the surgery itself. Normally, the actual spinal fusion process will take anywhere from six to twelve months from the completion of the surgery itself.
During the period of time of the spinal fusion process a person may be required to wear a brace. In some rare instances a second surgery may be required in order to effect the spinal fusion process; however, for most patients one surgery is effective and is all that is necessary. Factors that can slow down or prolong the spinal fusion process include smoking, certain medications and heavy activity during the period of time following the spinal fusion surgery. In the end, the spinal fusion process likely will be a great aid in reducing pain a patient has experienced in relation to his back or spine.
Jacksonville Spinal Fusion physician providing personal responses to your pain related needs. Chronic pain affects tens of millions of people in the US, greatly destroying their quality of life. Treat Jacksonville Spinal Treatment
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