Category: Spine Surgery | Author: Stefano Sinicropi | Date: February 16, 2026
We all put things off from time to time, especially if it’s not something we’re looking forward to. Whether that’s studying for a test or doing the dishes, oftentimes we’re not all that worse for the wear as long as we eventually buck up and do what we need to do. Unfortunately, that same logic doesn’t always apply when it comes to spine surgery. Delaying proactive care or a surgical procedure can lead to additional issues that may not have developed had you sought out care earlier in the process. In today’s blog, we explore some of the reasons why delaying spine surgery can lead to additional issues for your back.
Why It’s Unwise To Delay Spine Surgery
Putting off care can cause additional problems for your spine, so if you’ve been told that you need surgery, don’t wait months or years to schedule your procedure. Here’s a look at some of the issues that may develop if you postpone your spine surgery.
- Degenerative Conditions Only Worsen – Most spine conditions aren’t going to get better without active intervention, but that’s especially true about degenerative conditions. If you’re dealing with degenerative disc disease or arthritis progression, know that the problem will only worsen until you seek out the recommended care. It’s not going to magically get better on its own, but the degeneration will continue, oftentimes leading to worse symptoms and more pain.
- Progressed Conditions Are Harder To Treat – Building off the above point, when a condition continues to progress, it oftentimes becomes harder to effectively or completely treat. For example, persistent nerve compression can lead to permanent damage that can’t be reversed. Don’t assume that you’ll be able to achieve the same outcomes no matter when you undergo your procedure, because that may not be possible. Earlier intervention makes it more likely that your surgeon can fully address the underlying issue.
- Longer, More Expensive Recoveries – Some people shy away from making that surgery appointment because they know an operation will be another financial expense they’ll incur. However, undergoing surgery earlier in the process or diving into a proactive conservative care plan that can prevent the need for surgery altogether can end up saving you a lot of money in the long run. If your problem progresses to the point where a more hands-on procedure is necessary, or you’ll need more post-op PT sessions to make a full recovery, you may find that you actually incur more expenses because you put the operation off. Delayed treatment can lead to more medical expenses in the form of more complex procedures and recovery programs, and studies back up this assertion.
- Persistent Pain – The sooner you seek out care for your spine issue, the sooner you’ll be able to greatly reduce or eliminate back pain. Dealing with chronic or daily back pain is no way to go through life. Unfortunately, many people simply accept back pain as a new normal. These are the same patients that typically show up to their follow-up appointment after their procedure saying things like “I wish I would have done this sooner,” or “I can’t believe I put surgery off for so long.” Don’t assume that spine pain is something you just need to get used to. Solutions are closer than you realize, and you can put an end to your discomfort by connecting with a spine specialist.
- Bathroom Issues – Many people don’t realize that untreated spinal issues can oftentimes lead to bladder or bowel problems. The nerves that help regulate these processes are in close proximity to your lumbar spine and hips, and if these nerves become damaged as a result of an untreated issue, you may find that you’re having a difficult time managing your bladder or your bowels. Don’t let a back problem snowball into an issue in another area of your body.
Let us help put your spinal concerns to bed once and for all. For more information, or to set up your first appointment, connect with Dr. Sinicropi and the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.
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