A Thoughtful, Patient-First Approach to Spine Care
Back and neck pain are extremely common. In fact, millions of Americans experience spine-related symptoms each year. However, only a small percentage of patients ultimately require spine surgery.
Most spine conditions can be effectively treated with non-surgical approaches, including physical therapy, medications, injections, and activity modification.
At the Maryland Spine Center at Mercy, Dr. Shlykov takes a conservative, patient-centered approach—recommending surgery only when it is truly necessary and likely to provide meaningful benefit.
When Is Spine Surgery Necessary?
Spine surgery is typically considered when:
- Symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical treatment
- Pain significantly affects quality of life or daily function
- There is progressive neurological deficit (such as weakness or loss of function)
- There is spinal instability or deformity
- There is compression of the spinal cord or nerves
In most cases, unless there is an urgent or progressive neurological issue, spine surgery is elective, meaning it is based on your symptoms, goals, and response to treatment.
When Surgery May Be Recommended
Surgery may be an effective treatment for certain well-defined conditions, including:
- Herniated discs causing persistent nerve compression
- Spinal stenosis with leg or arm symptoms
- Spinal instability (such as spondylolisthesis)
- Spinal deformity (scoliosis or kyphosis)
- Certain spinal fractures
- Spinal tumors or infections
- Cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression)
In these situations, surgery can be highly effective at relieving nerve compression, restoring stability, and improving function.
When Surgery May Not Be the Best First Option
Many cases of back or neck pain do not require surgery, particularly when symptoms are primarily:
- Localized back or neck pain without nerve compression
- Mild or intermittent symptoms
- Improving with conservative treatment
Studies have shown that for many common spine conditions, non-surgical treatment can provide outcomes comparable to surgery, especially in the early stages.
For this reason, most patients benefit from a period of structured non-operative care before considering surgery.
A Personalized, Stepwise Approach
Every patient is different. The decision to proceed with surgery depends on:
- Your specific diagnosis
- Severity and duration of symptoms
- Imaging findings
- Response to prior treatments
- Your personal goals and activity level
Dr. Shlykov takes the time to carefully explain your condition, review imaging with you, and discuss all treatment options, so you can make an informed and confident decision.
Our Philosophy
Dr. Shlykov’s philosophy is centered on patient education, transparency, and trust.
- You will never be pressured into surgery
- Surgery is recommended only when clearly indicated
- Conservative treatments are emphasized whenever appropriate
- Care is tailored to your individual needs and goals
In many cases, non-surgical treatments can provide excellent relief and avoid the need for surgery altogether.
When to Seek Evaluation
You should consider seeing a spine specialist if you experience:
- Persistent back or neck pain lasting several weeks
- Pain radiating into the arms or legs
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- Symptoms that interfere with daily activities
Early evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and guide appropriate treatment.
When Should You Get a Second Opinion?
Seeking a second opinion is often a valuable step, especially when considering spine surgery. In many cases, it can provide clarity, reassurance, and confidence in your treatment plan.
You may benefit from a second opinion if:
- You have been told you need spine surgery, especially a complex or multilevel procedure
- Your symptoms and imaging findings do not clearly match
- You have persistent pain despite prior spine surgery
- You have been given multiple or conflicting recommendations
- You want to better understand all available treatment options, including non-surgical care
- Your condition involves spinal deformity, revision surgery, or complex pathology
A second opinion does not mean your initial diagnosis is incorrect—it ensures your treatment plan is thorough, accurate, and aligned with your goals.
Dr. Shlykov frequently evaluates patients seeking second opinions and provides a comprehensive, unbiased assessment, including:
- Detailed review of imaging and prior treatments
- Clear explanation of diagnosis
- Discussion of both surgical and non-surgical options
- Personalized recommendations tailored to your condition and goals
Schedule a Consultation or Second Opinion
If you are experiencing back or neck pain—or have been told you may need spine surgery—an expert evaluation can help you understand your options and determine the best path forward.
Whether you are seeking initial evaluation, advanced treatment, or a second opinion, Dr. Shlykov’s goal is to provide clear answers, thoughtful guidance, and personalized care.
Take the next step toward relief and recovery:
- Schedule a comprehensive consultation
- Receive an expert second opinion
- Review your imaging and treatment options in detail
Call:
Request Appointment Online: Online Appointment
Request Second Opinion: Second Opinion
Location: Maryland Spine Center at Mercy, Baltimore, Maryland
Summary
Most patients with back or neck pain do not require surgery. Many improve with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. Spine surgery is typically reserved for patients with persistent symptoms, nerve compression, spinal instability, or deformity. A careful, individualized evaluation is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. When appropriate, seeking a second opinion can provide clarity, confidence, and peace of mind in your decision-making.
