Back surgery is a major decision that deserves careful thought rather than a rushed answer. MRI findings like bulging discs or bone spurs don’t always explain why someone is in pain, which is why a complete evaluation considers pain patterns, strength changes, and treatment response — not imaging alone. Surgery is clearly warranted for conditions like cauda equina syndrome, spinal fractures, and severe instability, but these account for a small percentage of back pain cases. Conservative care addresses the underlying factors contributing to discomfort, and herniated discs, sciatica, and chronic lower back pain can all respond to movement, strengthening, and chiropractic care. Doctors typically start with the safest option first, preserving future treatment possibilities since surgery permanently changes the spine. Before agreeing to surgery, patients should ask what is causing their pain, whether all non-surgical options have been tried, and whether a second opinion makes sense.

source: https://jameshealthcareiowa.com/is-back-surgery-really-the-only-option/