A slipped disc might seem manageable with temporary fixes like painkillers or heat packs, but neglecting it can lead to serious conditions like **sciatica** or **spinal stenosis**, causing chronic pain, mobility issues, and even bladder dysfunction in severe cases.
### **Understanding Sciatica & Spinal Stenosis**
- **Sciatica** causes sharp, radiating nerve pain from the lower back to the leg.
- **Spinal stenosis** narrows the spinal canal, compressing nerves in the lower back or neck.
**Common Causes & Symptoms**
While a **herniated disc** is a leading cause, other factors include:
- **Sciatica:** Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, pregnancy, bone spurs, or physically demanding jobs (common in ages 30–50).
- **Spinal stenosis:** Aging (often over 50), arthritis, spinal injuries, or congenital issues.
Symptoms may include:
- Leg pain, numbness, or weakness
- Chronic back pain
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of bowel/bladder control (in severe cases)
### **When Surgery Becomes Necessary**
If conservative treatments (medication, physiotherapy, rest) fail, surgery may be the best option. **Robotic-assisted spine surgery** is a cutting-edge approach that enhances precision, minimizes incision size, reduces complications, and speeds up recovery—without replacing the surgeon’s expertise.
### **Success Stories: Restoring Mobility & Relief**
Two patients at **Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru**, found life-changing results through robotic spine surgery:
1. **Aziza Rajabu (63, Tanzania)** – Suffered from severe **spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis**, making walking painful. After surgery, she walked within hours and experienced lasting pain relief.
2. **Mohammed Al Dowaiki (37, Oman)** – A worsening **herniated disc** caused leg pain, muscle weakness, and urinary issues. Post-surgery, he regained strength and mobility almost immediately.
Both underwent **robotic-assisted spinal fusion**, where implants stabilized their spines while decompressing pinched nerves.
### **Key Takeaway**
Ignoring spinal issues can lead to long-term disability, but **early diagnosis and advanced treatments** like robotic surgery can restore mobility and quality of life. As Aziza and Mohammed’s stories prove, timely intervention can mean a pain-free future.
*(Authored by **Dr. S. Vidyadhara**, Chairman & HOD – Spine Surgery & Robotic Spine Surgery, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bengaluru.)*
