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4 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Choosing Back Surgery


Category: Spine Surgery | Author: Stefano Sinicropi | Date: May 4, 2026

Spine surgery is a major undertaking that carries some risks, so most people really take some time to ponder whether it is the right choice for them. And while you don’t have a crystal ball that can guarantee that the procedure will be worth it, we’re confident that if you ask yourself a few pointed questions before surgery, you can get some clarity as to whether it is the right move for you. In today’s blog, we explore four questions that patients should ask themselves prior to choosing elective spine surgery for treatment.

“Have I really committed to a conservative care routine that proved ineffective?”

For non-emergency spinal concerns, your doctor is going to recommend that you pursue a conservative treatment plan before considering surgery. Non-operative procedures can be just as effective as surgery for certain issues, and if we can achieve great results without the added risk of surgery, that’s the optimal route. If you truly gave your all to a conservative treatment like physical therapy or an exercise/weight loss regimen and are still struggling to see results after weeks of trying, you may be a prime candidate for a surgical procedure.

“What are your goals, and will surgery help you achieve them?”

Ask yourself why you are considering surgery in the first place, and what you hope to gain from the procedure. While you likely are hoping to have less pain, focus on some more specific goals as well. Do you hope to be able to golf again this spring? Are you hoping to regain independence so that you can continue living on your own? Do you want to be able to comfortably travel in the car so you can visit your grandkids more often? Really think about what you hope to achieve with a surgical procedure and determine if surgery aligns with these goals. If surgery can’t help you make this level of recovery, or you may be able to achieve it with other non-operative methods, you should reconsider your next steps.

“Am I willing to put in the work after surgery?”

We tell all our patients that surgery is just the first step in the recovery process, and much of the gains you’ll make will be the result of your efforts during physical therapy and your post-op recovery program. If you’re just hoping to take some pain medications and assume that rest is all you need to make a strong recovery, you’re mistaken, and a surgical procedure may not be right for you. You’ll get out what you put in when it comes to post-op recovery, so ask yourself if you are willing to put in the work after surgery to help yourself achieve the strongest recovery possible.

“Do I trust my surgeon?”

If you are considering moving forward with surgery, ask yourself if you have full confidence in your surgeon to deliver results. Did you feel more confident after your initial consultation, or are you a bit apprehensive? Surgery is a major undertaking, and you should have faith that the surgeon you choose to perform the operation is up to the task. There’s no harm in going with another provider if your first surgeon doesn’t seem like the right fit. If you’ve asked yourself the above questions and are confident that you’ve found the right surgeon to perform the operation, you should be in a good place to choose surgery for your back issue.

Dr. Sinicropi is confident that he can help you find clarity when it comes to treatment options for your back ailment. For more information on how he can help you overcome your back pain, or to learn more about surgical options for your spinal concern, connect with Dr. Sinicropi and the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.

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