Disc replacement is a surgery to remove worn or damaged disc material from between two or more of your vertebrae and replace it with an artificial disc. The discs, which are soft circular tissues that absorb shock between your vertebrae, normally allow you to move your back or neck smoothly.

When discs are weak or damaged, often because of degenerative disc disease, they can herniate and place pressure on nearby nerve roots, causing radiculopathy. They can also cause spinal instability. The main symptom of degenerative disc disease is pain, though you might feel referred pain in the arms or legs if a disc places pressure on a nerve.

At The Neck and Back Institute of Florida, Dr. Creek uses artificial disc replacement as an alternative to spinal fusion, which connects two vertebrae together for better spinal stability but less mobility.

Dr. Creek specializes in performing disc replacement in two portions of the spine, which are both prone to injuries and structural issues because of their mobility.

• Lumbar disc replacement

  • Lumbar disc replacement replaces damaged discs in the low-back part of the spine. It’s a good choice for those with low back pain that comes from one or two discs in the lumbar spine.

• Cervical disc replacement

  • Cervical disc replacement replaces damaged discs causing pain in the neck or cervical spine. It can also relieve arm pain and weakness, which often come from nerve compression complications in the neck.

Before he recommends disc replacement surgery, Dr. Creek performs a physical exam with X-rays, MRI scans, or other imaging tests to assess your discs and the entire spine. He also takes note of your medical history to make sure surgery is a safe option for you.

You should:

• Let Dr. Creek know what medications you take

• Stop smoking

• Follow instructions for fasting before the surgery

• Prepare a ride home from your surgery

• Arrange your home to be accessible for you during recovery

Dr. Creek makes sure you fully understand the artificial disc replacement procedure and all of the things you need to do to prepare ahead of time. He also follows up with you after your surgery to make sure you’re recovering well.