What is lower back pain?
Lower back pain refers to any discomfort you experience in your back from below your ribs to above your buttocks. This part of your back, also referred to as your lumbar spine, supports much of the weight of your upper body and is a common source of pain.
For most people, lower back pain is acute, meaning the pain resolves within a few days or a few weeks. However, for some people, lower back pain turns into a chronic health condition that causes ongoing discomfort that lasts three or more months.
Chronic lower back pain not only affects your physical health, but can also impact mental and emotional health.
Whether acute or chronic, the team at NeuroSpinecare can help you get relief from your discomfort.
What causes lower back pain?
Your lower back pain may result from an injury or an underlying health condition or disease. Some of the most common causes of lower back pain include:
- Sprains and strains
- Herniated disc
- Sciatica
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Spinal deformity
Lower back pain can also develop from issues related to your feet, ankles, knees, or hips, which may affect weight distribution adding stress to your lower back.
What can I expect during an evaluation for lower back pain?
The team at NeuroSpinecare conducts comprehensive examinations when you come to the office with concerns about lower back pain.
During your evaluation, your provider reviews your symptoms, onset of pain, and medical history. The team also performs a physical exam to assess overall health.
Your doctor may also request diagnostic imaging to further evaluate your lower back and spine and identify the underlying cause of your discomfort.
What are the treatments of lower back pain?
The team at NeuroSpinecare creates individualized treatment plans for lower back pain based on the cause, severity of symptoms, and medical history. Your treatment plan may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Anticonvulsant medication
- Antidepressants
- Physical therapy
- Joint injections
If conservative measures fail to relieve your lower back pain, the team may suggest back surgery. The type of surgery you need may depend on the underlying cause of your discomfort. Some of the most common back surgery procedures include:
- Laminectomy
- Kyphoplasty
- Lumbar disc microsurgery
- Posterior lumbar interbody fusion
The experienced team at NeuroSpinecare includes a trusted neurosurgeon who can review your surgical needs with you.
For management of your lower back pain, contact NeuroSpinecare, Inc. by phone or online today.
