Overview
Pain in the back or neck pain that interferes with normal daily activities may necessitate surgery. Laminectomy is a procedure in which a surgeon removes some or all of the vertebral bone (lamina) that helps to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by an injury, herniated disc, narrowing of the canal (spinal stenosis), or tumors. A laminectomy is considered only when all other medical treatments have failed. A disc may become displaced or damaged due to an injury or normal wear and tear. A disc presses on the spinal nerves and causes pain, numbness, or weakness.
Spinal pain can limit your ability to move and function. The numbness or pain will be felt in the body part innervated by the nerve, which is usually the arms or legs. Sciatica is a familiar symptom of a herniated disc. This sharp, shooting pain runs from the buttocks to the thigh and down the back of the leg.
Laminectomy may be performed to relieve spinal nerve pressure, treat a disc problem, or remove a tumor from the spine.
If medical therapy is no longer working, surgery may be a choice. Some medical treatments for pain may include:
- Changes in physical activity
- Smoking cessation
- Medications such as muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medicines, and pain relievers.
- Physical therapy
- Spinal injections
- Occupational therapy
- Weight loss
- Assistive devices, such as mechanical back supports