Common Types of Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common health conditions affecting about 80 percent of people in the United States. Types of back pain, possible causes and treatment options vary widely from patient to patient.
Spine pain can affect the neck, mid-back and lower back. The pain can vary in severity and present itself differently in each patient.
Unfortunately, back pain affects daily functioning, mental well-being and overall quality of life.
Major Causes of Back Pain
People experience back pain for a variety of reasons, so it is important to recognize the source of the pain. Back pain is often caused by a combination of factors, and based on the cause, the treatment may vary. The most common causes of back pain include the following:
- Muscle or ligament strain/tear
- A bulging or ruptured disc
- Stenosis
- Nerve Impingement
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Scoliosis
How to Diagnose Back Pain
Our physicians at Northside Spine & Pain Specialists begin their evaluation of each patient with a medical examination. A thorough workup is performed to seek the cause of the pain.
To examine the area more closely and to determine the source of the pain, x-rays and MRIs are often recommended. In some cases, physicians at Northside Spine & Pain Specialists may order a blood or urine test to see if the pain is being caused by an infection or another problem unrelated to the spine.
Back Pain Treatment Options
Treatment depends on what is determined to be the cause of the pain during a patient’s evaluation. Initial treatment options include conservative measures such as physical therapy, massage therapy, a regimen of home exercises and over-the-counter and/or prescription medications.
If conservative measures fail, there are several minimally invasive treatments and procedures available to help with the pain. These procedures can prevent or postpone back surgery. If these procedures fail, patients will be referred to the appropriate specialist.
Ready to Get Relief From Your Back Pain?
If back pain is disrupting your daily life, impacting the ability to care for yourself or others and forcing you to take pain medicine regularly, then it’s time to call Northside Spine & Pain Specialists. Through a thorough evaluation, they can identify the cause of your back pain and develop a treatment plan to mitigate your discomfort, enable you to resume your normal activities and reclaim your quality of life.