Is Total Disc Replacement Right for You?

You probably already know that your bones need cushioning to move comfortably. That’s why you have cartilage in your knees, for example. The bones in your spine (your vertebrae) need this kind of support, too.

For that, your body has spinal discs. With cushions between each vertebra, your spine can twist and bend without pain. Your spinal discs also help your body absorb shock when you move, limiting any discomfort. 

Long story short, your discs are extremely important. That’s why a problem with one or more of them usually leads to lasting, often debilitating pain. 

If you’re having disc problems, our team at Anchor Spine and Joint can help. Our experienced surgeons offer a range of treatment options, including total joint replacement. You can visit us at any of our offices throughout Florida — in Tampa, Riverview, Pinellas Park, Odessa, or Lutz — to explore disc replacement for yourself.

What total disc replacement can do for your spine

If your spinal pain hasn’t responded to conservative treatments, we can help you explore more involved solutions. Sometimes, your best option is to remove the disc and fuse the now-touching vertebrae so they don’t rub as you move. 

The problem with this option stems from the loss of mobility that comes with it. If you want to be able to maintain your spine’s ability to move normally, we offer an alternative.

With total disc replacement, we remove the problem disc. Instead of fusing the area, though, we then insert an artificial disc. This preserves normal function in your spine.

Total disc replacement can help you get significant pain relief wherever you’re experiencing disc-related discomfort. That includes your cervical spine, which often results in neck pain, and your lumbar spine, which often results in low back pain. 

Candidacy for total disc replacement

Total disc replacement often has a shorter recovery window with less pain than spinal fusion. Still, it’s an involved procedure that requires general anesthesia, a hospital stay, and at least six weeks of recovery. This is why our team always recommends exploring conservative treatment options first. 

If your pain hasn’t responded to physical therapy, medication, or activity modification, we can help you determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for total disc replacement. Typically, you need to:

• Be generally healthy
• Have one or two damaged discs
• Have an otherwise healthy spine (no arthritis, scoliosis, osteoporosis, etc.)
• Not have facet joint disease or nerve compression
• Not smoke, or be willing to quit

Some metal allergies and neuromuscular conditions can also disqualify you from total disc replacement. Our team comes alongside you to figure out if this kind of procedure is right for you and your specific spinal pain. 

To explore this option for yourself, schedule an appointment with us. Call the Anchor Spine and Joint office nearest you or book your appointment online by simply clicking the blue “Request an Appointment” button on our site.