The spine is a complex structure, made up of bones called vertebrae, cushioning discs, joints, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. A problem with any of these components can lead to pain or reduced movement. Acute back pain typically resolves within a few weeks, but chronic back discomfort persists for three months or longer.
What Conditions Cause Back Pain?
Back pain can result from gradual wear on the spine, or they are caused by underlying medical conditions. Certain factors may raise the likelihood of developing back pain, including poor posture, a sedentary lifestyle, excess body weight, improper lifting techniques, and physically demanding occupations. Common causes include:
- Disc Herniation: The discs between vertebrae have a soft inner core, and when this material pushes outward, it may press on nearby nerves.
- Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal can place pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
- Osteoarthritis: Cartilage in the facet joints of the spine may wear down over time, which causes stiffness and discomfort.
- Scoliosis: An abnormal sideways curve of the spine can contribute to pain in some individuals.
Lifting heavy objects, twisting suddenly, or overusing the back muscles may also stretch or tear soft tissues.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Back pain symptoms vary based on the underlying cause and the area of the spine involved. Some people experience a dull, constant ache, while others feel sharp or shooting pain that worsens with certain movements. You may also notice stiffness, a reduced range of motion, or muscle spasms. Pain can spread into the hips, buttocks, or legs; it is also accompanied by numbness, tingling, a burning sensation, or weakness in the limbs in certain cases.
To identify the source of back pain, an orthopedic specialist typically begins with a review of your medical history and a discussion of your symptoms. A physical examination can assess posture, flexibility, strength, and reflexes. The physician may also perform neurological tests; these are used to evaluate nerve function.
Imaging and diagnostic tests can provide further detail. X-rays show the alignment of bones, and they are able to reveal fractures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) produces detailed images of soft tissues such as discs, nerves, and ligaments. Computed tomography (CT) scans offer cross-sectional views of the spine. A physician may order electromyography (EMG) in some cases, measuring nerve and muscle activity.
How Is It Treated Non-surgically?
People with back pain can be treated with conservative, non-surgical methods. A physician develops a treatment plan based on the diagnosis, as well as the severity of symptoms and the patient’s overall health. Non-surgical approaches vary, and some common methods include:
- Activity Modification: Short periods of rest combined with gentle movement may help reduce strain while maintaining mobility.
- Exercise Guidance: A physical therapist can guide patients through exercises designed to strengthen the core and back muscles, improve flexibility, and support proper posture.
- Injections: Epidural steroid injections or facet joint injections deliver medication directly to the affected area to address inflammation and pain.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: This procedure uses heat to interrupt pain signals from specific nerves.
Physicians often combine several of these methods. Progress is monitored through follow-up visits, and the plan may be adjusted as symptoms change.
Seek Professional Orthopedic Care
Back pain that lasts longer than a few weeks, as well as symptoms that worsen over time or interfere with daily tasks, warrants an evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. Early assessment allows a physician to identify the cause of symptoms, and they may recommend an appropriate course of treatment. An orthopedic specialist can explain all available options and help you determine the most suitable path forward.
