Woman with neck pain

Artificial Disk Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion for Attorneys and Other Professionals

January 30, 2025
Admin

If you’re not an athlete, and your job doesn’t involve strenuous physical activity, you might think that chronic neck pain or pinched nerves that radiate pain shouldn’t have as much impact on your daily life. However, one doesn’t have to be lifting heavy objects or on their feet all day to be seriously impacted by this type of neck issue. Consider an attorney who alternates long hours in their office working on cases with appearances in court, where they need to be sharp, focused, and professional in front of judges and juries.

Hours of desk work and research can strain their neck, making the pain worse. That discomfort makes it difficult to sit through long court sessions, where it can be hard to take breaks because court schedules are so demanding. When pain flares up it can be hard to focus on arguments in the courtyard, making them anxious that they’ll be distracted and forget key details of the case at crucial moments. Pain makes it hard to sleep, so they feel exhausted and less prepared to face high-pressure days. They’re constantly self-conscious that their pain must be evident to everyone, affecting the judge and jury’s perception of their professionalism. Ultimately, they worry that if they can’t get a handle on the pain, they won’t be able to do their job effectively in the long run.

If the pain does not improve with physical therapy and other conservative measures, the next recommended step may be a surgical procedure to treat the underlying cause of chronic neck pain and nerve symptoms like radiating pain down the arm. Artificial disc replacement (ADR) and spinal fusion are both treatments that can be effective for relieving debilitating symptoms, but ADR is often considered a better option for maintaining mobility and functionality as compared to fusion. For professionals like attorneys who need to maintain comfort and mental focus, and who are likely to value being able to retain more natural movement, it is worth understanding the difference between the procedures and the potential effects of each.

Comparing ADR and Spinal Fusion for Attorneys

If someone has a damaged or degenerated intervertebral disc, the pressure it puts on the spinal column and nerves can cause both chronic and sharp pain, as well as numbness and tingling. Artificial disc replacement (ADR) addresses these symptoms by removing the affected disc and replacing it with an implant designed to function like a natural disc. Spinal fusion corrects the same issues by removing the disc and permanently connecting the two adjacent vertebrae with a bone graft. Here’s what you may be able to expect from each of these procedures when you’re considering your treatment goals:

Desired treatment outcomesArtificial Disc Replacement (ADR)Spinal Fusion
Preserving natural motionArtificial discs are designed to replicate the natural movement of the cervical spine, retaining neck flexibility. This makes it possible to move the neck from side-to-side more easily, such as when looking from a computer monitor to a document or between different speakers during a court presentation.Spinal fusion eliminates movement at the affected segment by fusing two or more vertebrae together. This can restrict neck motion and cause stiffness, which might make long workdays more uncomfortable.  
Faster recovery time  Recovery is typically quicker because the ADR is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t require bone healing. This is benefits professionals like attorneys who wish to minimize time away from work.Recovery can take longer, as the bones need time to fuse. The extended time needed to heal can potentially delay a return to work or full productivity.  
Lowered risk of adjacent segment disease (ASD) and secondary surgeriesADR allows you to return to a more active lifestyle with fewer restrictions. For an attorney, this means long court sessions and daily routines can be handled without worrying about neck stiffness.The immobility of the fused segment can place extra stress on adjacent discs, increasing the likelihood of future issues and additional surgeries.
Long-term pain relief  ADR effectively alleviates pain by removing the damaged disc and maintaining natural movement. This can reduce nerve compression and improve overall comfort.Fusion also relieves pain by stabilizing the affected area. However, the loss of motion can sometimes cause lingering discomfort or strain elsewhere in the spine.
Improved quality of life  Retaining neck mobility is especially valuable for professionals who sit for extended periods or need to move dynamically during their day.While fusion stabilizes the spine, it might limit your ability to move freely, which can affect daily activities and professional performance.
Active professional life with fewer restrictionsADR allows you to return to a more active lifestyle with fewer restrictions. For an attorney, this means long court sessions and in daily routines can be handled without worrying about neck stiffness.Fusion may limit activities requiring full neck mobility, which could be inconvenient in a fast-paced, professional environment.  
Maintaining professional appearanceWith ADR, there is no post-surgical stiffness that could cause an attorney to look uncomfortable or distracted in court.Restricted movement from spinal fusion may make discomfort more visible, which could affect your courtroom presence.
Comfort during prolonged activities  ADR helps maintain a more natural posture and reduces the likelihood of chronic discomfort during long hours at a desk or in court.Prolonged sitting or repetitive neck movements after spinal fusion may lead to increased strain and discomfort over time.

While ADR is particularly suited for individuals who want to maintain an active lifestyle, not every patient is a good candidate for the procedure. Those with serious spinal instability, severe arthritis, multiple degenerated discs, and certain other spinal conditions may be better served by spinal fusion. Consulting a spine specialist with experience with both ADR and fusion is highly recommended to ensure that patients are treated with the best option for their individual circumstances and conditions.

Providing Treatment and Relief for Chronic Neck Pain in Southern California

If you’re experiencing chronic neck pain that is affecting your work, rest, and favorite activities, you want relief that gives you your life back. Board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Tiffany Rogers began her career in providing lasting solutions for neck and back pain as a physical therapist, which informs her approach of looking for the least invasive and effective option to accomplish your treatment goals. To get answers to your questions about ADR, spinal fusion, and which might be right for you, contact us here to schedule an appointment.

TESTIMONIALS

Real People, Real Transformations - Happy Outcomes

Dr. Rogers

Dr. Rogers

Mike was barely able to walk. I did his surgery and now he’s traveling the world with his wife! That pic is from Africa, hiked up to see mountain gorillas…

LINDA M

I feel very blessed to have walked in to the office for a consultation with Dr Rogers. On that day upon review of my MRI report she determined that I needed emergency surgery due to extremely compressed spinal cord at C3/4. Now I knew it was compressed for some time but I avoided going to the surgeon because I was afraid to have surgery. She calmly explained the alternatives to not having the surgery and it was a no brainer. My symptoms had gotten really bad and I knew she was right. I trusted her judgement and I am so happy that I had the surgery. Almost immediately my symptoms improved!! All of the nurses and other doctors at Torrance Memorial praised her work also and she was very well respected. I would recommend Dr Rogers because not only was my surgery a success but she also showed great compassion for me because I was very sad to be in the hospital during the Holidays. To me this shows she cares about healing the whole person.

AMBER J

I have Dr Rogers to thank for the rest of my life. At 12 I was told by a specialist that I was born with a deformity in my spine which was causing slight scoliosis. At 20, I started experiencing back pain, constantly feeling the need to crack my back for some relief, tossing and turning all hours of the night, seeking massages. As I started to get older, the pain only increased. By 23, my back began to “lock” on me. I would bend over or lean forward and my nerves would pitch, causing me to not be able to move for a few seconds. At first I had kaiser insurance, the “spinal specialist” if you can even call her that said there was no possible surgery to fix my spine and back pain. She told me PT and epidural spinal injections were the answer….. (wrong, very wrong!) I got this run around with kaiser for 2 years!!!!

By 25, I was BEYOND frustrated and in pain, so my (now) husband put me on his insurance, and I was able to find Dr Rogers. She requested an MRI and X-rays, and saw what was wrong with my spine and what needed to be done. I needed a spinal fusion and decompression. She even referred me to a spinal specialist in LA, to get a second recommendation, and he agreed with everything she wanted to do for my surgery. I had full trust in Dr Rogers. She was always kind, always informative, and reassured me I was going to be alright. As a fellow athlete, she understood what I was sacrificing for this surgery. My love for playing soccer would have to come to an end post surgery due to the risk of blowing out another level of my spine. She was compassionate and again gave me reassurance I would eventually be pain free and be able to carry my own children which was the most important to me.

I underwent my lumbar spinal surgery with a spinal fusion and decompression August 2016. The pain and recovery I experienced post surgery was the most pain I’ve ever felt. Pain meds helped, but you really have to be dedicated to taking the vitamins Dr Roger recommends, and doing the amazing PT she prescribed. The PT was Pilates based, and it seriously did my recovery wonders.

By March 2017, I was ready to move to another state and went in for one last check up with Dr Rogers. She did another X-ray, and told me that my fusion looked so good and healthy , that I could start playing soccer again. Not competitively, but recreationally, and now I am nearly 2 years post spinal surgery, playing on 2 soccer teams, active in the gym, and my husband and I are trying to start a family.

I still experience soreness in my lower spine if I lift too heavy of objects the wrong way or work out too hard, but that is to be expected. I have been off any type of medication spine related for over a year now, and it’s nothing a little ice won’t cure. All in all I have a lot to thank Dr Rogers for. She saved my back.

Thank you so much Dr Rogers!!!!

VIVIEN E

Dr Rogers has been taking care of my back issues for years. It came to a point that I did need a major surgery. A fusion. I am so glad it was done. Just wished I’d done it earlier. My leg pain is gone, the back spasms are gone , feeling like my ribs were stabbing me is also gone and though I’m still healing I feel so much better. I am so grateful to Dr Rogers !! I would highly recommend her for spine issues. Forever thankful!! The staff is professional and friendly also.
Update!!
It’s been a year and a half since my back surgery with Dr Rogers and I’m doing great!! Thank you again Dr Rogers!!

CURLY C

There are two major factors in my thinking a doctors office is 5 stars… #1 is the office and staff itself… #2 is the moment you meet the doctor and how they present themselves to you. Being someone that’s had multiple surgeries, dealt with dozens of doctors and facilities… if these two are in line when you go on your first visit, you know the experience and the healing to come will be worth it.

I have to say, the offices, ease of getting there, parking… were amazing… the staff at the front desk (and on the phone for that matter) were some of the most engaging, informative and easy to deal with that I’ve ever encountered. They made it EASY for me to check in, etc… I was taken in at the exact time of my appointment (I did listen and get there 15 minutes early) and was escorted through, had X-rays and waited for Dr. Rogers…

The moment I met Dr. Rogers, I had faith that I was in the right hands. Her eye contact, the way she shook my hand, the way she listened… the deep understanding she immediately had for my symptoms and the journey I’ve been on for the last 10 years after of my spine surgery in New York… made me incredibly calm and gave me such peace.

I see her again next week, after a battery of tests… but I look forward to finding answers with this healing doctor and her colleagues and staff…

xoxox

MIA M

I am writing this review on behalf of Dr. Rogers patient, Yolanda Phelps.

Dr.Rogers performed an anterior cervical disectomy and cervical fusion on me last Tuesday. I am home now and my recovery is going great. Dr. Tiffany Rogers was so caring, thorough, and made me feel so comfortable during this difficult procedure. She took very good care of me and I am so thankful for her help.

Also her PA Jeff was so kind and helpful as well. Thank you so much you two for everything!!

PS don’t waste time going through pain go to dr. Tiffany Rogers. She does all the bells and whistles!!

ANONYMOUS

Dr. Rogers is Exceptional. I am a patient of hers. I was in extreme pain Christmas week. Doctor Rogers ordered an MRI. Diagnosis was dislocated shoulder. I called her office 12/27/18. Doctor called back. She asked if I could be in her office immediately. I saw her within 1/2 hour. She injected me with Cortisone.What a God given gift!

Dr. Rogers is obsessed with the ability to heal. She went above and beyond to releive my pain.

Thank you Dr. Rogers.

KAYE R.

I am a 72 year old female who suffered cervical disc herniation at multiple levels, resulting in severe pain in my neck and right arm. Dr. Rogers performed an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion. After surgery my pain was GONE! I was in the hospital for two days and received excellent care. I have had multiple surgeries during my lifetime but this was by far the best experience and I believe a direct result of Dr. Rogers’ experience and the care she has for her patients.

BEVERLY S.

I can’t express the feelings of gratitude for Dr. Rogers and her team. About 7 months ago I started having pain in my right neck, shoulder, arm all the way to my feet. The pain worsened almost daily. Had a epidural done in the 3rd month felt good for 3 days and wham the pain, weakness was back worse than before. I went back to epidural doctor and he told me there was nothing more he could do at least for 3 months. The pain was getting so bad, l cried, became very irritable and hopeless. I started physical therapy and it seem to adjutant my worst spots. I felt hopeless and knew I couldn’t take much-more. So I made an appt with Dr. Rogers. I told her the pain had increased to a point I couldn’t stand one more day in this pain. I’m not a wimp I can endure a lot but I had come to end of pain tolerance. She showed me my xrays and I believe my right she said let’s do this. I was admitted to Torrance Memorial Tuesday around 8:30 AM.hours later when I woke up n my room, there was absolutely no pain. Dr. Rogers just happen to walk in my room. I was really medicated I grabbed her and said there’s no more pain. I owe everything to her. I love her, respect her