What is Back Pain?
Back pain refers to any discomfort involving the muscles, joints, nerves, or bones of the back. It can range from mild aches to severe, disabling pain. Some people experience sudden episodes of acute back pain, while others live with ongoing chronic pain that requires long-term management.
Acute vs. Chronic Back Pain
Acute Back Pain
Acute back pain typically comes on suddenly and lasts less than three weeks. It is often related to an injury or strain and usually improves as the body heals.
Chronic Back Pain
Chronic back pain lasts for three months or longer. It may start after an injury that never fully healed or develop gradually due to age-related changes in the spine, such as arthritis or degenerative disc disease.
Common Causes of Back Pain
Back pain often develops from mechanical problems affecting the structure or function of the spine. Some of the most common causes include:
- Arthritis
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Facet joint syndrome
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Post-laminectomy syndrome
- Sciatica
- Scoliosis
- Spinal stenosis
- Spinal infections
- Spondylolisthesis
- Compression fractures
- Cancer
Pain in the back can also result from issues in other parts of the body, such as arthritis in the knees or hips, which changes how you move and puts extra strain on the spine.
How Back Pain is Diagnosed
At Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants, we take the time to thoroughly evaluate your condition to identify the root cause of your back pain. Your appointment will include:
- A detailed discussion about your symptoms
- A review of your medical history
- A physical examination
We may also recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or nerve conduction studies. In some cases, a diagnostic injection can help pinpoint the exact source of your pain.
How Back Pain is Treated
Your back pain treatment plan is personalized based on the cause of your pain and the severity of your symptoms. Treatment options may include:
- Activity modifications
- Weight management strategies
- Physical therapy
- Bracing
- Epidural steroid injections
- Trigger point injections
- Vertebroplasty
- Decompression discectomy
- Disc denervation
- Facet joint injections
- The Vertiflex™ Procedure
- The Minuteman® Procedure
- Nerve blocks
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Prolotherapy
- Percutaneous discectomy
Our team works closely with you to develop a comprehensive plan that aims to provide long-term relief and restore your quality of life.