For athletes and sports enthusiasts, back pain isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a barrier to staying competitive and active. When chronic spinal pain disrupts your performance, finding the right treatment is critical. Two options often discussed are spinal fusion and the Discseel® Procedure, but how do they compare? Let’s break it down and see why Discseel® might be the better choice for athletes looking to stay in the game.

Spinal Fusion: What Athletes Need to Know

Spinal fusion has been a go-to surgical option for over 100 years, but it comes with serious drawbacks, especially for those who rely on flexibility, mobility, and endurance.

Why Spinal Fusion May Not Be Ideal for Athletes

• Permanent Limitations: Fusion involves permanently joining portions of the spine with screws and hardware, reducing flexibility—something no athlete can afford.
• High Failure Rate: Over 40% of spinal fusion patients continue to experience chronic pain after surgery, undermining their ability to train and compete.
• Repeat Procedures: Nearly 1 in 3 patients require a second surgery within a decade, leading to extended downtime and added frustration.
• Dependence on Pain Medications: Many fusion patients still rely on strong painkillers like opioids, which can hinder recovery and athletic performance.

For sports enthusiasts, these risks make spinal fusion a daunting option.

The Discseel® Procedure: An Athlete-Friendly Alternative

The Discseel® Procedure is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment designed to address spinal pain without compromising your mobility or flexibility. It’s an innovative solution for athletes who need effective relief without sacrificing their active lifestyle.

Key Benefits for Athletes

1. Minimally Invasive: Unlike spinal fusion, the Discseel® Procedure doesn’t require large incisions or hardware. The result? No permanent scarring or extensive recovery periods.
2. Quick Recovery: As an outpatient procedure, you can return home the same day and begin your journey to recovery much faster than with spinal fusion.
3. Improved Pain Relief: Over 70% of Discseel® patients report reduced pain and improved quality of life—allowing athletes to get back to training and competing sooner.
4. No Loss of Flexibility: Since no hardware is inserted, your spine maintains its natural range of motion, crucial for athletes in sports requiring agility and movement.

How Does the Discseel® Procedure Work?

The Discseel® Procedure involves injecting a biologic material into the damaged discs in your spine. This material works to seal and heal the discs, addressing the root cause of pain rather than masking symptoms. The procedure is highly targeted, minimally invasive, and designed to preserve your body’s natural structure—making it ideal for active individuals.

Discseel® vs. Spinal Fusion: The Stats

Here’s how the two procedures compare:

Invasiveness

1. Discseel® Procedure - Minimally invasive, no hardware
2. Spinal Fusion - Invasive, requires screws/plates

Recovery Time

1. Discseel® Procedure - Outpatient, quick recovery
2. Spinal Fusion - Hospital stay, prolonged recovery

Success Rate

1. Discseel® Procedure - 70% report reduced pain
2. Spinal Fusion - Hospital stay, prolonged recovery

Impact on Flexibility

1. Discseel® Procedure - Preserves mobility
2. Spinal Fusion - Permanent loss of flexibility

Future Surgeries Needed

1. Discseel® Procedure - Rare
2. Spinal Fusion - 1 in 3 need a second procedure

Why Athletes Should Consider the Discseel® Procedure

The Discseel® Procedure aligns perfectly with the needs of athletes and sports enthusiasts. It offers an effective, low-risk alternative to spinal fusion, ensuring that you can return to your sport with the mobility and energy you need to excel.

If you’re struggling with chronic back pain and considering your options, the Discseel® Procedure might be your best play for long-term relief without compromising your performance.

Take the Next Step at California Sports & Spine Institute

At the California Sports and Spine Institute, Dr. Maxim Moradian specializes in innovative treatments that help athletes and active individuals overcome chronic pain. The Discseel® Procedure is a revolutionary option designed to keep you moving and thriving.

📞 Contact us today at (818) 338-6860 or (626) 460-1096

🌐 Visit our website

Don’t let back pain sideline you—discover the Discseel® difference and get back to doing what you love!