Medically reviewed by Dr. Scheid
When back or neck pain reaches the point where it disrupts daily life — limiting how you walk, sleep, or simply get through the day — it may be a sign that the spine needs more than rest or medication. Conditions like degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spondylolisthesis can destabilize the spine and place persistent pressure on surrounding nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness that conservative treatments can no longer address. For patients who have reached that crossroads, spinal fusion may offer the structural support and lasting relief they need.
At NeuroSpine Plus in North Bergen, NJ, we take a personalized approach to every patient — evaluating each case carefully before recommending surgery. With over 20 years of experience and more than 8,000 successful surgeries, Dr. Edward Scheid and our team are committed to providing safe, precise, and minimally invasive care for patients dealing with serious spinal conditions.
What Is Spinal Fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae together, eliminating the movement between them. The procedure involves placing bone graft material between the vertebrae — sourced from the patient’s own body, a donor, or an artificial substitute — which encourages the bones to grow and heal together over time. Hardware such as rods, screws, or cages may also be used to hold the vertebrae in place while the fusion heals.
When Is Spinal Fusion Recommended?
Not every patient with back or neck pain is a candidate for spinal fusion, and we do not recommend surgery unless it is genuinely the most appropriate path forward for that patient’s specific condition. Dr. Scheid evaluates each individual thoroughly before a surgical recommendation is made.
Spinal fusion is most commonly considered when symptoms are severe and have not improved through conservative care. Common conditions that may be treated with spinal fusion include degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and spinal fractures. It is also performed in conjunction with other procedures — such as a discectomy or laminectomy — when decompression of the spine is needed alongside stabilization.
Cervical vs. Lumbar Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion can be performed at different levels of the spine depending on where the problem originates. At NeuroSpine Plus, we perform both cervical and lumbar fusions to address a range of conditions affecting the neck and lower back.
Cervical Spinal Fusion (ACDF)
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, commonly referred to as ACDF, is one of the most frequently performed spinal procedures we offer. It is used to treat cervical disc herniation, cervical stenosis, and nerve compression that causes pain, weakness, or numbness radiating into the arms. ACDF is typically employed for degeneration of the cervical spine and for spinal cord decompression, helping to relieve neck pain, motor and sensory dysfunction, and radiculopathy. Through a minimally invasive approach, the damaged disc is removed and the adjacent vertebrae are fused to restore stability and relieve pressure on the affected nerves.
Lumbar Spinal Fusion
Lumbar fusion addresses instability and nerve compression in the lower back — one of the most common sources of debilitating spinal pain. Several minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion techniques exist, and the right approach depends on the patient’s anatomy, the affected spinal level, and the underlying diagnosis. Surgical interbody fusion of degenerative levels can stabilize a painful motion segment, provide indirect decompression of neural elements, restore lumbar lordosis, and correct deformity. Dr. Scheid determines which technique is most appropriate on a case-by-case basis, always with the goal of minimizing recovery time and achieving meaningful, lasting improvement.
Our Minimally Invasive Approach
At NeuroSpine Plus, we prioritize minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. Compared to traditional open surgery, minimally invasive spinal fusion involves smaller incisions, less disruption to surrounding tissue, and a faster recovery period. The advantages of minimally invasive spine surgery include small skin incisions, reduced tissue damage, a quicker recovery, and a shorter hospital stay. This approach allows us to deliver precise, effective surgical outcomes while reducing the burden on patients during the healing process.
Our commitment to minimally invasive care reflects a broader philosophy: every patient deserves a treatment plan that fits their condition, their health history, and their goals. We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether a patient needs a cervical fusion, a lumbar fusion, or a combination of procedures, the plan is shaped by Dr. Scheid’s evaluation and clinical judgment.
What to Expect After Spinal Fusion
Recovery from spinal fusion varies depending on the type of procedure performed, the level of the spine involved, and the patient’s overall health. Most patients can expect a gradual return to activity, with restrictions in place during the initial healing phase to protect the fusion site. Physical therapy is often an important part of the recovery process, helping patients rebuild strength and mobility as the vertebrae heal together.
We are with our patients throughout every stage — from the initial consultation through post-operative care. Our team communicates clearly about what to expect during recovery and is available to address any concerns that arise along the way.
Spinal Fusion Care in North Bergen, NJ
Living with unresolved spine pain can affect nearly every aspect of life. When the right surgical option is available and well-matched to a patient’s needs, spinal fusion can provide meaningful, long-term relief. Our team at NeuroSpine Plus is here to help patients in North Bergen and the surrounding Hudson County region understand their options and take the next step toward a better quality of life.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore surgical options or have already been through conservative treatment without success, we encourage you to connect with us directly. To schedule a consultation, visit our contact page. Our North Bergen office is located at 6307 John F. Kennedy Blvd — and with six convenient New Jersey locations, including Edison, Paramus, Jersey City, Mount Laurel, and Hamilton, getting the care you need has never been more accessible.
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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Scheid & The Team at NeuroSpine Plus
Last updated: May 1, 2026The team at NeuroSpine Plus is led by Dr. Edward Scheid, a board-certified neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience and 8,000+ successful surgeries. Along with his dedicated team of physician assistants and medical professionals, NeuroSpine Plus specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and comprehensive spine care across six convenient locations in New Jersey. Our clinical expertise in treating complex spine conditions ensures all content is medically accurate and based on proven treatment approaches we use daily in our practice.