Spinal surgery issues simplified

Spine patients afflicted with severe degenerative disc diseases often find diagnostic and treatment options as daunting as the surgery itself. Fortunately, "Getting Back on Their Feet," a new documentary released by the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation, was created specifically to help spine surgery patients overcome obstacles they encounter in their search for wellness.

By compiling advice from a global community of artificial disc replacement (ADR) patients, the unique 75-minute documentary saves patients hundreds of hours of research time. The film provides patients a clearer understanding of spinal dysfunction and helps them make informed decisions about their possible treatments. Using a series of candid interviews, the film's producer, Richard Longland, follows seven patients from their first debilitating pains through surgery and into recovery. The film provides a comprehensive source of educational information, potential risks and contraindications of ADR surgery.

The film also helps physicians understand patients' perspectives as they journey from diagnosis to recovery, and provides an educational tool addressing the questions and concerns of their patients. "Getting Back on Their Feet" helps accelerate the dialogue between the patient-doctor team and making the most efficient use of time so doctors and patients can concentrate on what is most important: treating spinal dysfunction.

"The visual medium of film is an ideal method to distill complex spine issues and convey that information to a wide audience in an objective manner," says Longland. "As a spine patient myself, I found that when you interview someone face-to-face, it creates an honest intimacy and allows patients to openly share their stories in ways that they could never share online or over the phone."

SOURCE: Arthroplasty Patient Foundation