Why delaying spine surgery can lead to permanent disability

The spine is a sensitive system of nerves and bones. Spinal problems occur in the neck, back, and lower back area, each of which plays a major role in the functioning of the nerves. Spinal problems were once associated with ageing in India. Today, however, they are increasingly seen in the young and working-age population. Excessive sitting and sedentary lifestyles have contributed to this. A major issue now, is patients delaying medical consultations. Although many spine problems are not critical at the beginning, a delay in conducting surgeries such as discectomy (disc removal), laminectomy, spinal fusion, and modern minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) at critical stages may result in total and severe long-term damage.

Why is clinical assessment important?

Preventing long-term limitations starts with timely diagnosis rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. Early clinical evaluation helps identify nerve compression or structural changes before they begin to significantly affect function. Modern imaging and neurological assessments help monitor spinal health accurately and identify the most appropriate time for intervention. When early signs such as persistent numbness, limb weakness, or difficulty with coordination appear, these should be addressed promptly for improved outcomes and to simplify recovery.

Spine surgeries like spinal fusion, foraminotomy, and robotic spine surgery are not always urgent, but when clinically advised, timely decision-making can make recovery smoother and more predictable. Addressing spinal problems early often allows patients to return to daily activities with better comfort, confidence, and long-term spinal health.

What delays do

Severe complications can develop over time if surgery is delayed for a long period:

Continued nerve sensitivity: Extended pressure on spinal nerves can make them more sensitive over time, leading to ongoing pain and tingling even after treatment.

Reduced muscle strength: Nerves play an important role in activating muscles. If nerve signals are interrupted for long periods, muscle strength and endurance may gradually decline, affecting mobility and balance

Loss of reflexes: Delaying treatment often results in the permanent loss of basic bodily functions, such as bladder and bowel control, due to crushed sacral nerves.

Irreversible nerve atrophy: When a disc or bone fragment exerts constant pressure, it starves the nerve of oxygen, which leads the nerve fibres to die over time. Once these fibres are lost, no surgery can bring back the functioning of the bone.

Spinal deformity: In some conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, delaying treatment can cause the spine’s bones to shift or fuse incorrectly, resulting in permanent spinal deformity.

Preventing severe damage

Preventing severe damage requires a proactive clinical approach rather than a delaying attitude. The most important factor is early clinical diagnosis, where tests help to identify nerve compression before physical symptoms become catastrophic. Medical monitoring through high-resolution imaging allows for a precise understanding of how much space remains for the spinal cord to function. Clinical prevention also involves constant vigilance over the protective sheath around the spinal cord. Post-treatment care then ensures that success is cemented.

Early intervention and decision-making, therefore, play an important role in preventing disability and maintaining health

(Dr. Hamza Shaikh is consultant – spine surgery, Manipal Hospitals Dwarka, New Delhi. hamza.shaikh@manipalhospitals.com)