Katherine Heigl just underwent a major neck surgery, she revealed on Instagram. Although she didn’t share many details about why she had the procedure, she does say that the surgery involved implanting two titanium discs in her neck.
“Well…I am now bionic!! Two titanium disk now inhabit my neck and I can probably stand on my head for like hours…I’m not gonna try it just yet but give me a few months and I’ll blow your mind!!” she wrote in the Instagram caption. “I am so deeply deeply grateful to the incredible Dr’s and care team that saved me from the most excruciating pain I have ever experienced and blessed me with a new pain free lease on life!”
Heigl then thanked the medical experts for helping her receive care and get a sense for what the surgery would entail. “ Thank you for your tremendous talent and expertise and for saving my neck!” she wrote. “Heading into surgery and hospital stays is always a bit scary and you guys could not have made me feel more comfortable or taken care of!”
While we don’t know exactly why Heigl had the discs implanted, artificial discs like these can be used as replacements for discs in the spine that have become worn out or injured, SELF explained previously. These discs, which have a jellylike center contained within a harder exterior, normally act like cushioning between the vertebrae. But the discs can rupture or rip, allowing some of that inner jelly to leak out. This painful condition, called a herniated disc, can occur as the result of an injury or just from normal wear and tear over time.
Most people with neck pain due to disc issues don’t require surgery, the Mayo Clinic says. A combination of pain medication and physical therapy can often be enough to reduce the pain. But, in severe circumstances, surgery may be the only option to provide relief.
Related:
- Why People Like Katherine Heigl Love Kayla Itsines’ BBG Program
- You Could Have a Herniated Disc Without Even Realizing It
- Melissa Gilbert Is in Recovery After ‘Life-Altering’ Neck Surgery