When it comes to spine surgery, fear and misinformation often go hand in hand. For many New Yorkers suffering from chronic back pain or spinal issues, the mere mention of “spine surgery” brings to mind scary images of long hospital stays, risky procedures, and permanent disability. But how much of this perception is grounded in truth—and how much is outdated myth?

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, our mission is to educate and empower patients with accurate information so they can make informed decisions about their spinal health. Dr. Arutyunyan, a trusted NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, is setting the record straight by debunking five of the most common myths about spine surgery. With advancements in surgical techniques, diagnostics, and rehabilitation, spine surgery has evolved far beyond what many people believe.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or have been told you might need surgery, understanding the facts can make a world of difference.

Myth #1: Spine Surgery Is Always the First Option

The Truth: Surgery is typically the last resort.

One of the biggest misconceptions patients have is that visiting a spine surgeon automatically means they’ll be pushed toward surgery. In reality, spine surgery is rarely the first course of action.

Dr. Arutyunyan explains that conservative treatments are typically prioritized, including:

• Physical therapy
• Epidural steroid injections
• Chiropractic care
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Activity modification and rest

In fact, at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, over 80% of patients successfully manage their pain with non-surgical interventions. Surgery is generally reserved for cases where conservative treatments have failed, or when neurological symptoms (such as loss of function, severe weakness, or bowel/bladder issues) present immediate concerns.

Myth #2: All Spine Surgeries Are Risky and Invasive

The Truth: Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) has revolutionized patient outcomes.

The fear of large incisions and long recovery times is common—and understandable. Historically, spine surgery did involve more invasive techniques. But today, thanks to minimally invasive procedures, patients experience:

• Smaller incisions
• Reduced blood loss
• Shorter hospital stays
• Quicker recovery times
• Less post-operative pain

NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeons like Dr. Arutyunyan utilize state-of-the-art imaging, robotics, and navigation systems to increase precision and minimize damage to surrounding tissues.

Minimally invasive options are available for many common conditions, such as:

• Herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Scoliosis
• Sciatica

These advancements are especially important for active New Yorkers who need to get back to work, commuting, and daily life with minimal downtime.

Myth #3: Recovery Takes Months or Years

The Truth: Most patients recover faster than expected.

Many patients put off spine surgery because they fear an extended and painful recovery. While each case is different, the average recovery time for minimally invasive spine procedures is significantly shorter than traditional surgery.

Dr. Arutyunyan emphasizes that recovery depends on several factors:

• The type of procedure performed
• Patient health and fitness level
• Commitment to physical therapy
• Adherence to post-op instructions

For example:

• Microdiscectomy: Many patients return to light activity within 2 weeks.
• Spinal fusion: Light activity typically resumes within 6–8 weeks.
• Laminectomy: Most patients can walk the same day and return to full function within a month.

Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics also offers personalized rehabilitation plans to support each patient’s return to full activity as safely and quickly as possible. For NYC professionals, parents, and commuters, these faster recovery timelines are a game-changer.

Myth #4: Spine Surgery Guarantees Pain-Free Living Forever

The Truth: Surgery is a tool—not a magic wand.

While spine surgery can be highly effective, it’s not a guaranteed cure for every type of back pain. Some patients have unrealistic expectations, believing that once they have surgery, their back pain will disappear permanently.

According to Dr. Arutyunyan, surgery should be viewed as a way to reduce pain and restore function—not eliminate every ache and twinge.

Spinal issues are often complex, involving a combination of structural, muscular, and lifestyle-related factors. Even after a successful procedure, long-term results depend on:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Practicing good posture
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Avoiding smoking and heavy lifting
• Staying committed to physical therapy

This myth often leads to disappointment when patients don’t achieve a 100% pain-free life after surgery. Education, goal-setting, and realistic expectations are key to achieving optimal outcomes.

Myth #5: You’ll Be Paralyzed if Something Goes Wrong

The Truth: The risk of paralysis is extremely rare.

This fear is among the most paralyzing—pun intended—and often leads patients to delay treatment. While any surgical procedure carries some level of risk, permanent paralysis is extremely rare in modern spine surgery, especially when performed by an experienced NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon like Dr. Arutyunyan.

Thanks to enhanced surgical technology, detailed imaging (MRI, CT), and real-time nerve monitoring, surgeons can avoid critical structures with pinpoint accuracy.

Risk factors are minimized even further with:

• Pre-surgical planning using 3D navigation
• Intraoperative neuromonitoring to track nerve function
• Post-operative care by multidisciplinary teams

Patients at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics are carefully screened and evaluated to determine the safest course of action, whether surgical or non-surgical.

As Dr. Arutyunyan states, “We treat the person, not just the problem. Safety and outcomes are our top priorities.”

Common Spine Surgery Procedures Performed at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics

To further demystify spine surgery, here’s a look at common procedures offered:

1. Discectomy

Removes part of a herniated disc pressing on a nerve. Often minimally invasive.

2. Spinal Fusion

Stabilizes two or more vertebrae. Used for degenerative disc disease or spinal instability.

3. Laminectomy

Relieves pressure on spinal nerves caused by stenosis.

4. Artificial Disc Replacement

An alternative to fusion that maintains spine flexibility.

5. Kyphoplasty/Vertebroplasty

Minimally invasive procedures used to treat compression fractures.

Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, lifestyle, and condition severity. At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we believe informed patients are empowered patients.

Why Choose Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics?

Choosing the right spine specialist can be overwhelming in a city like New York. That’s why Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, led by Dr. Arutyunyan, offers a patient-first approach that blends:

• Advanced diagnostic tools
• Non-surgical options
• Minimally invasive surgical expertise
• Customized recovery plans
• Clear, compassionate communication

With a deep understanding of the challenges NYC patients face—from long subway commutes to physically demanding jobs—we create care plans that help restore not just spinal function, but your lifestyle and independence.

Whether you’re exploring Back Pain Treatment in NYC or considering your surgical options, we invite you to schedule a consultation and get clarity on the path forward.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Fear Decide Your Future

Living with spinal pain is draining—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. The decision to undergo spine surgery is significant, and it should be based on facts, not fear.

Dr. Arutyunyan and the team at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics are here to guide you with evidence-based recommendations, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to whole-person care.

If you’ve been avoiding care because of what you’ve “heard” about spine surgery, it’s time to get the real story. Contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation and discover how modern spine care can change your life.

If you are experiencing back pain and seeking expert care from a leading NYC orthopedic spine surgeon, schedule a consultation with Dr. Arutyunyan today. Take the first step toward a pain-free life with the latest advancements in spine surgery.