Harvard-trained Back Dr in NJ Answers 4 Burning Questions

What are the most common causes of back pain?

There are many different activities and afflictions that can trigger back pain. Injuries to the back and certain physical activities can lead to acute back pain that usually goes away with medication and rest. However, back pain that persists and is accompanied by other symptoms, such as muscle spasm or neck pain, can be caused by more severe conditions.

The most common causes of back pain include:

Muscle or ligament strain

Back muscles and spinal ligaments may be strained by certain actions, such as repeated heavy lifting or rapid movements. Constant strain on your back can lead to painful muscle spasms, especially if you are not in good physical condition.

Herniated disks

Disks serve as cushions between your spine’s bones. The soft material contained inside a disk may bulge or burst, putting pressure on a nerve. You may, however, have a bulging or ruptured disk without feeling back pain, as herniated disks are sometimes discovered incidentally when you have a spine X-ray for a different condition.

Arthritis

The lower back may sometimes be affected by osteoarthritis. In certain cases, spinal arthritis may cause a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition known as spinal stenosis.

What are the risk factors that increase the chance of developing back pain?

Back pain can be experienced by anyone, regardless of age, physical condition, gender, or lifestyle choices. However, there are certain risk factors that can increase the chance of developing back pain, so it may be advised to make some lifestyle changes for better pain management.

Factors that may put you at risk of developing back pain include:

• Age: While back pain can hit anyone, it gets more common as you pass the age of 30.
• Excess weight: Individuals who are overweight can put additional pressure on their spine, resulting in back pain.
• A sedentary lifestyle: If muscles are not used, they become weak and can fail to support the spine.
• Heavy lifting: lifting heavy objects can lead to back pain, especially if you lift with your back instead of your legs.
• Smoking: smoking can reduce blood flow to the spine and raise the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Is there anything I can do to prevent back pain?

With proper care and certain changes to your lifestyle, the chances of developing back pain can be significantly decreased. An interventional pain doctor may recommend the following actions to prevent back pain from becoming a problem:

Exercise regularly

Regular physical exercises that do not strain or jar your back can improve back muscle strength and stamina, providing better support for the spine. Swimming and walking are often recommended, but make sure to talk to your doctor beforehand.

Keep your body strong

Training your back and abdominal muscles will provide better natural support and ensure your body is stronger and healthier.

Know how to use your body

Improper physical activities can lead to back pain. Adjust your posture frequently and make sure you are not slouching. If you are required to sit for multiple hours a day, choose a chair with good back support. Never lift using your back. Instead, use the strength in your legs and keep your back straight.

When should I go see a doctor?

As we mentioned before, back pain can manifest itself differently from person to person. If the pain does not go away in a few days, it may be time to seek advice from a trained physician. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor if you experience one of the following:

• Pain becomes worse after a few days.
• It starts spreading to your lower limbs.
• Causes weakness or numbness in the legs.
• Pain is accompanied by fever.

Once you make an appointment, the doctor will see you for a physical examination and recommend further tests in order to determine which condition causes the pain. You may be asked to do an X-ray, CT scan or MRI, bone scan, nerve tests, as well as blood tests.

After the condition has been determined, you will be presented with multiple options of treatment or referred to a spine surgeon for further care. Available treatment options include:

• Prescribed pain medication or muscle relaxants
• Minimally invasive spine surgery
• Disc replacement surgery
• Physical therapy
• Nerve stimulation
• Chiropractic care

Back pain is never easy to experience and can really take a toll on your everyday life. We hope the answers above helped you get a more clear idea of how to manage back pain, and if you are looking for more information, don’t hesitate to contact Pain Treatment Specialists right away. You can find us in Paramus on Route 17, near the Paramus Park Mall, in Clifton, NJ, on Route 46 E, past the Ford dealership, in West Orange, near the Essex Country Club, and in Woodland Park, on McBride Avenue.