Watch Dr. Sarraj explain
Why it comes first
Many spine conditions can be managed without surgery. The plan depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, and examination; it is not appropriate to delay assessment of worsening nerve or spinal cord symptoms.
Treatment may include a tailored activity and physiotherapy programme, a medication review, and a planned reassessment with your treating clinician.
What it involves
- Physiotherapy and activity changes suited to your diagnosis and current abilities.
- Reviewing medication benefits and side effects with your prescriber.
- Considering an image-guided injection when it has a clear role in your care.
- Discussing sleep, bone health, and other factors that may affect recovery.
- Agreeing when to reassess and which new symptoms need earlier review.
What to expect
Improvement is usually gradual and rarely linear. Good weeks and bad weeks are normal, and a flare does not mean the plan has failed.
If the plan has been followed properly and symptoms remain limiting, that is useful information — it is part of how the decision to operate gets made, and it makes the surgical discussion better informed.
Questions for your appointment
- What is the main goal of this treatment for me?
- Which symptoms are likely to improve, and which may remain?
- What are the alternatives and the risks of waiting?
- What help will I need at home, and when can I return to my usual activities?
Educational information to support your consultation. The options, risks, and recovery described here may differ from your individual plan. Contact your treating team about new or changing symptoms.