Motion preserving surgery represents an approach to spinal treatment that addresses painful conditions while maintaining the natural movement and flexibility of your spine. Motion preserving techniques restore function and alleviate pain while preserving your spine’s natural biomechanics.
If chronic neck or back pain has been limiting your daily activities, these advanced procedures may offer the relief you need without sacrificing the flexibility that keeps you active. At Neurosurgeons of New Jersey, our specialized team combines cutting-edge technology with decades of expertise to help you return to the life you love.
Understanding Motion Preserving Approaches
When spinal conditions cause persistent pain, numbness, or weakness, surgery may become necessary. Motion-preserving surgical techniques address the root cause of your symptoms while maintaining spinal mobility.
Good candidates for motion preserving surgery typically have degenerative disc disease, mild spinal instability, or nerve compression without severe deformity. Age, activity level, bone quality, and specific anatomy all factor into candidacy. A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies, helps determine if these techniques are appropriate for your condition.
Our board-certified surgeons carefully evaluate each patient to determine whether these techniques are appropriate for their specific condition and lifestyle goals.
Treatment Options for Maintaining Spinal Motion
Minimally Invasive Approaches
Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement is the most common form of motion preserving surgery. This procedure involves removing a damaged disc in the spine and replacing it with an artificial disc that mimics natural movement. This procedure maintains natural movement and flexibility while eliminating the source of pain and nerve compression. Younger, active patients often benefit the most from this motion preserving procedure, an experienced surgeon can determine if a patient is a good candidate. Patients typically experience faster recovery times compared to fusion and can return to normal activities within 6-8 weeks.
Advanced Decompression Techniques
Minimally Invasive Foraminotomy
This minimally invasive procedure enlarges the openings where nerve roots exit the spine, relieving pressure without disrupting spinal stability. Using a small incision and a tube, surgeons can precisely remove bone spurs or tissue causing nerve compression while preserving natural motion. Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks.
Minimally Invasive Laminectomy
A targeted approach to removing portions of the lamina (back part of vertebrae) that are compressing the spinal cord or nerves. This technique preserves the spine’s natural movement while creating space for compressed neural structures. The procedure often allows same-day discharge with rapid return to activities.
Why Choose Motion Preserving Techniques?
Maintains Natural Movement
These techniques allow you to maintain the flexibility and range of motion necessary for daily activities, work, and recreation. This preservation of natural biomechanics often leads to better long-term satisfaction and function.
Faster Recovery Times
Many motion-preserving procedures involve smaller incisions and less tissue disruption, leading to shorter hospital stays and quicker return to normal activities. Most patients can resume desk work within 1-2 weeks and physical activities within 6-8 weeks.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Patients who undergo these procedures often report higher satisfaction scores related to their ability to perform daily activities, participate in sports, and maintain their active lifestyles.
Our Expert Team
The team at Neurosurgeons of New Jersey have extensive training in advanced spinal techniques and stay current with the latest developments in the field. Our team includes specialists who focus specifically on motion-preserving procedures, ensuring you receive care from surgeons who perform these techniques regularly.
Each of our board-certified surgeons brings years of experience and a commitment to helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes while preserving their quality of life. We take time to thoroughly evaluate your condition and explain all treatment options, ensuring you can make an informed decision about your care.
Insurance Coverage and Accessibility
At Neurosurgeons of New Jersey, we’re one of the few neurosurgical practices in the state that accepts all major insurance plans. Partnered with a vast network of in-network insurance providers, we work with you to get the care you deserve, making high-quality spine care more accessible. Our insurance specialists can check your coverage and help navigate the approval process with you.
Your Next Steps
Don’t let chronic spinal pain limit your life when advanced treatment options may provide the relief you need. Our specialized team will evaluate your condition and discuss whether these innovative techniques are right for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between motion-preserving procedures and spinal fusion?
Motion-preserving procedures maintain natural movement between vertebrae while addressing the underlying problem causing your symptoms. Spinal fusion fuses vertebrae to support the spine. Both approaches have their place in spinal treatment, and your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your specific condition.
How long do artificial discs last?
Modern artificial discs are designed to last decades with proper care. Studies show excellent long-term results with low rates of implant failure or need for revision. The materials used are biocompatible and designed to withstand the repetitive forces of spinal motion.
Will I need physical therapy after treatment?
Most patients benefit from structured physical therapy to optimize their recovery and return to full function. Your therapy program will be tailored to your specific procedure and goals, typically beginning 2-4 weeks after treatment and continuing for 6-12 weeks.
Can these procedures be revised if needed?
Yes, most motion-preserving procedures can be revised or converted to other treatments if necessary. However, revision rates are low when patients are properly selected for these techniques.
How do I choose between different treatment options?
Your surgeon will recommend the best procedure based on your specific anatomy, condition, activity level, and goals. Factors include the location and extent of your problem, bone quality, previous treatments, and your expectations for recovery and function.
What should I expect during recovery?
Recovery varies by procedure but generally involves 1-2 weeks of modified activity, followed by a gradual return to normal function over 6-8 weeks. Most patients can return to desk work within 1-2 weeks and physical activities within 6-8 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your procedure.
How successful are motion-preserving procedures?
Success rates for these advanced techniques are excellent, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function. Studies show high patient satisfaction rates and good long-term outcomes when appropriate candidates are selected for these procedures.
Will insurance cover these treatments?
Most insurance plans cover these procedures when medically necessary. Our insurance specialists will work with your plan to obtain prior authorization and ensure you understand your coverage before proceeding with treatment.