What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain is common and can develop from many sources. In most cases, back pain develops after a fall or lifting injury and resolves within six weeks (acute back pain). However, some people develop chronic back pain that lasts longer than three months.
Common causes of acute and chronic back pain include:
- Strains and sprains
- Herniated disc
- Degenerated discs
- Arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
- Spine fractures
- Osteoporosis
- Pinched nerve
- Sciatica
Whether your back pain is acute or chronic, understanding the root of your discomfort ensures you get the best treatment to alleviate the pain.
How is Back Pain Diagnosed?
When you visit NJ Spine and Wellness for your back pain, the team conducts a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose the reason for your discomfort.
During your exam, your provider reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical. Your provider also assesses your ability to stand, walk, sit, and lift your legs.
To get more details about the source of your pain, your back pain specialist may recommend further testing, such as:
- X-ray
- Bone scan
- CT or MRI scan
- Electromyography
The health experts at NJ Spine and Wellness use the information gathered during your exam to formulate a diagnosis.
How is Back Pain Treated?
The team at NJ Spine and Wellness takes a multidisciplinary approach to care, and your treatment plan may include several therapies and modalities to help you get better faster.
The health and wellness specialists work with you to find a conservative treatment option that causes minimal disruption to your life while also providing the best chance for relieving your painful symptoms.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Epidural injections
- Trigger point injections
- DRX9000® spinal decompression therapy
- Regenerative medicine
The experienced team at NJ Spine and Wellness works closely with you and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor you and your pain and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Will I Need Surgery for My Back Pain?
In rare cases, the team may recommend a surgical procedure to alleviate your back pain. For patients with a herniated disc that causes persistent pain and muscle weakness, surgery may be the best option.
The team also recommends surgery to repair extensive spinal damage from an injury or medical condition.
Types of back pain surgeries include:
- Disc replacement
- Spinal fusion
- Discectomy
- Laminectomy
When surgery is needed, the team uses minimally invasive spine surgery techniques to reduce your recovery time and post-surgical pain, so you get better faster.
To schedule your back pain consultation, call NJ Spine and Wellness or book an appointment online today.
