Procedures · Category
Procedures that relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves — easing pain, numbness and weakness in the neck, arms, back and legs.
Overview
When a herniated disc, bone spur, thickened ligament or arthritis narrows the space around the nerves, the result can be neck or back pain along with symptoms that travel into the arms or legs — often called a pinched nerve or sciatica.
Decompression surgery removes what is causing the pressure. Dr. Record performs decompressions in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, using minimally invasive techniques whenever clinically appropriate.
Procedures
Neck
A minimally invasive procedure that removes the portion of a herniated disc pressing on a nerve — one of the most common surgeries for sciatica.
Mid-back
Surgery from the back of the neck that creates more room for the spinal cord and nerve roots, relieving pressure that causes neck and arm symptoms.
Lower back
A minimally invasive procedure that removes the portion of a herniated disc pressing on a nerve — one of the most common surgeries for sciatica.
Lower back
Surgery that opens space in the lower spine to relieve pressure on nerves — easing leg pain, numbness and heaviness when standing or walking.
Lower back
A decompression that removes part of the bony roof of the spinal canal to give compressed nerves more room.
Conservative first
Dr. Record believes that surgery is not necessarily the first step for every patient. Whenever appropriate, she works with patients to explore non-operative and conservative treatment options first.
When conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief — or when a patient would like to understand whether surgery may be appropriate — Dr. Record provides a comprehensive discussion of available surgical options.
Her goal is to identify the treatment approach that can help alleviate pain, restore function, and help patients return to the activities that matter to them.
FAQ
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When nerve symptoms continue despite conservative treatment, or when there are signs such as progressive weakness or spinal cord compression.
Not always. Fusion is added only when the spine is unstable or would become unstable after decompression.
Dr. Record accepts Medicare, workers’ compensation, PPO plans and a variety of private insurance plans, plus cash payments. Many procedures need pre-authorization — our team will help check your coverage before surgery.
Talk with Dr. Record about whether decompression could ease your pain.