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in Prescott, AZ
928-717-1251
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Spinal Fusion~ Did Ya Know?
by Nancy M. Turcich, NTS, RPP, RPE
Recently, my nephew underwent a spinal fusion, from T2-L3. He did this against my better judgement. Yet, after all was said and done, I had to release the fears that I held for him and send him all the love that I could muster. In fact, I continue to do just that. However, I also feel it is important to share what I have learned about spinal fusion so that people can make a more informed decision when it comes to the health of their spine.
I realize that I had a spinal fusion more than twenty-seven years ago and medically, many things have changed in that time. Although the procedure may have improved, the outcome remains the same... an immobile spine.
The spine was made to flex and bend. It’s flexibility impacts not just spinal health but the organs, tissues, muscles, even the way we think. Since my fusion I have spent the better part of my time working to obtain flexibility in a surgically bound area. My efforts have paid off and I am happy to say that I have more than a decent range of motion. Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky.
What doctors don’t tell you is vast. It is not that they are trying to deceive anyone, they simply don’t know the facts themselves. They can tell you about the surgical procedure, the medication, the duration of your hospital stay (barring any complications), the recovery time, mostly medical jargon. What they can’t tell you is what follows in this article. Information that comes directly from a person who underwent a spinal fusion at the age of nineteen after crushing T4, 5 & 6. As a holistic therapist, I can go on and on, but I will simply point out what I have learned along my personal path.
- The spine is meant to bend and flex.
- If your fusion is in the upper back you are very prone to whiplash.
- Ribs tend to move forward and cause pain because of an inability to adjust posteriorly.
- Surgically, skin, muscles, and bones are all cut and disturbed.
- Metal is placed along the vertebrae to stabilize the spine so the fusion can join the
bones together in a solid piece.
- Another surgery/hospital stay may follow to remove metal.
- Expect additional scar tissue if bone chips are harvested from the pelvis.
- Spasms may become your worst nightmare.
- Stress and emotions affect the spine and rods.
- Eventually, pressure of being bound causes greater stiffness and tightness around the spinal tissue and the organs.
- Vertebrae above and below the fusion may naturally fuse due to spinal immobility.
- The energy that travels up and down your spine, to every organ will be disrupted and may change forever.
- Air travel may be effected due to metal in the body.
- The hardware may break or crack.
- Your medical history will change F O R E V E R.
In the end, it’s a real trade-off. You will gain some things while you lose others. Just don’t be naive and think that surgery is the answer to pain. It can help some things and take away others, but it is no magic bullet. A spinal fusion is creating a single entity out of individual parts. The spine is meant to move and bend and twist and shake all about. All I ask is that you consider all of the options before you bind yourself into a permanent situation that leaves you feeling worse instead of better. Be well.... NMT
For more details about holistic therapy and Nancy’s experience with healing refer to her book "Finding My Way From Paralysis To A Rich, Full Life."
Reproduction of articles are permitted by Nancy M. Turcich, NTS, RPP, RPE, author and holistic bodyworker, with acknowledgments and credentials included. www.naturalmassagetherapy.com
For further information or questions, please contact Nancy @ Natural Massage Therapy at 928-717-1251, nmt1@naturalmassagetherapy.com.
To see Nancy speak about her experiences please view the video here.
All articles are for informational/educational purposes only. This information does not take
the place of current treatment plans nor medications prescribed. Always consult your physician
to determine the most beneficial course of treatment for your individual needs. |
