Busting Myths About Spine Problems & Surgery

Spine problems affect millions of people worldwide, often causing chronic pain, reduced mobility, and a lower quality of life. Unfortunately, myths and misconceptions about spine health and surgery prevent many patients from seeking timely and effective treatment.

To address this concern, Dr. TKB Ganapathy, a Minimally Invasive & Endoscopic Brain and Spine Surgeon at Marengo CIMS Hospital, hosted a LIVE session to help patients separate fact from fiction when it comes to spine care.

🔍 Key Takeaways from the Session

✅ When Is Spine Surgery Really Needed?

Many people fear that back or neck pain automatically leads to surgery. Dr. Ganapathy clarified that most spine conditions can be managed with non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is considered only when:

• Conservative treatments fail to relieve pain

• There is significant nerve compression causing weakness, numbness, or loss of function

• Structural problems in the spine demand corrective intervention

✅ Advanced & Safer Treatment Options

The session highlighted the latest breakthroughs in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery, which offer:

• Smaller incisions and reduced scarring

• Less blood loss and shorter hospital stays

• Faster recovery and early return to daily activities

✅ Myth vs. Reality

• Myth: Spine surgery is always risky.
  Reality: With advanced technology and skilled surgeons, complication rates are very low.

• Myth: All back pain requires surgery.
  Reality: Over 90% of spine problems improve without surgical intervention.

• Myth: Surgery means long bed rest.
  Reality: Modern techniques focus on quick mobility and rehabilitation.

✅ Real Patient Concerns Answered

Dr. Ganapathy also addressed common patient questions about:

• Recovery timelines

• Long-term outcomes of surgery

• Preventive care for spine health

🌟 Why This Session Matters

Spine health is often neglected until pain becomes unbearable. By clearing doubts and breaking myths, this session empowered patients to make informed decisions about their treatment options.

Don’t let misinformation keep you from living pain-free. With the right guidance and timely care, a healthy spine — and a better quality of life — is within reach.