Back Pain
What is back pain?
Back pain is extremely common and the pain can range from a bothersome ache to excruciating agony. It is one of the primary reasons why individuals seek medical assistance or miss work.
Back pain can be classified by asking a few questions:
- Where is the pain? Are you experiencing upper, middle, or lower back?
- What is the pain level? Is the pain mild, moderate, or severe?
- How does the pain manifest? Is the pain a persistent ache or a sharp stab?
- How long does the pain last? Are you experiencing sudden and brief pain or persistent pain that has persisted for more than three to six months?
At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand the impact that back pain can have on your daily life. Our team of neurosurgeons and physician assistants are dedicated to providing effective and personalized solutions for managing and treating back pain.
What are the symptoms of back pain?
The following symptoms could be a sign of underlying chronic back pain that needs to be addressed:
- Nagging and persistent muscle discomfort
- Unexpected sharp and stabbing pains when moving or performing an activity.
- Numbness, tingling down your leg
- Pain intensified by lifting, prolonged standing, and leaning
- Pain that improves when you change position
- Significant muscle stiffness and tension, causing discomfort and limiting range of movement
- Sharp radiating pain down one side of your leg
What are the causes of back pain?
Back pain often arises from various factors affecting the alignment and movement of your spinal joints, muscles, discs, and nerves. If you are experiencing discomfort, it is essential to identify the underlying causes. Here are some common conditions that may cause back pain:
- Herniated or Slipped Discs
These occur when the soft tissue in the discs between your vertebrae protrudes.
- Bulging Discs
While not as severe as herniated discs, bulging discs can still press on nerve roots, resulting in discomfort.
- Degenerative Disc Disease
This condition involves the shrinking or tearing of the discs between your vertebrae, leading to bone-on-bone contact.
- Inflammation and Wear of the Sacroiliac Joint
Inflammation and wear of the joint that connects the spine and pelvis.
- Spinal Stenosis
As you age, your spinal canal may narrow, causing pressure on the spine and nerves.
- Radiculopathy
Pinched nerves caused by bone spurs or herniated discs.
- Spondylolisthesis
If your vertebrae slip forward and become misaligned, particularly in the lower back.
Accidents, injuries, and lifestyle changes can also contribute to back pain. NeuroSpine Plus understands the impact of these factors and provides tailored treatment plans to address your specific needs. Remember, maintaining good posture, avoiding heavy lifting, managing weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and choosing appropriate footwear are crucial steps toward a healthier spine. Trust NeuroSpine Plus to be your partner in achieving optimal spinal health. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards a pain-free life by calling 201-399-3388 for your initial consultation.
What are the treatments for back pain?
Neurospine Plus offers various treatment options to effectively manage back pain. Noninvasive treatment alternatives are typically recommended and may include:
- Oral medications
Anti-inflammatories, oral steroids, muscle relaxers, and topical pain relievers.
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic intervention
- Acupuncture
- Physiatry
- Pain Management
A pain management provider may be able to treat spinal discomfort and radicular complaints by way of corticosteroid injections, spinal cord stimulator trials, prescription medications, and ultrasound therapies, among other treatment options.
If nonoperative treatment methods fail to alleviate your discomfort, you may be advised to consider surgical options such as:
Back Pain FAQ
- Back Sleeping with Knee Support: Place a pillow under your knees to relieve pressure on your back and maintain your spine’s natural curve.
- Side Sleeping with Knee Pillow: If back sleeping is not comfortable, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to align your hips.
- Avoid Stomach Sleeping: Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck and spine, so it’s best to avoid this position.
While there are instances where back pain may alleviate on its own, it is advisable to seek treatment, particularly if the underlying cause is unknown.
While there are instances where back pain may alleviate on its own, it is advisable to seek treatment, particularly if the underlying cause is unknown or your symptoms have been persistent despite attempting conservative therapies, as discussed above
If you encounter any of the following symptoms or conditions, it is recommended to consult a specialist at NeuroSpine Plus:
- Numbness or tingling sensations in your arms or legs that persist or worsen, indicating potential nerve-related issues.
- Back pain that does not subside with rest and anti-inflammatory pain medications potentially points to underlying spinal involvement.
- Back pain that occurs after an injury or fall, as it may signify traumatic injury to the spinal column.
- New onset of weakness in your arms or legs, as it may be a sign of nerve damage or muscle-related concerns.
- Back pain accompanied by a fever, which could suggest an infection or inflammatory condition.
Whatever your condition may be, our team of board-certified neurosurgeons are here to assist in finding the tailored treatment plan that is right for you and your spine. Call us today to book your consultation at 201-399-3388.