Back Pain

What should I know about back pain?

Back pain refers to any discomfort that affects your back and may include your spine, muscles, nerves, or connective tissue. Back pain is very common, and for most people, it resolves on its own with time. However, others experience ongoing back pain that can affect your overall quality of life. 

Whether your pain is acute or chronic, the team at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group can provide the care you need to help you get relief from the discomfort and get back to doing the things that make you happy.

What causes back pain?

Back pain can develop from many causes. In most cases, the pain comes from a mechanical issue that affects the musculoskeletal system. Common causes of back pain include:

• Arthritis
• Disc degeneration
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis
• Strain or sprain
• Herniated disc
• Osteoporosis

While less common, back pain can also develop from an infection.

How is back pain diagnosed?

Your specialist at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group conducts a comprehensive examination to identify the underlying cause of your back pain. During your examination, your specialist reviews your symptoms and medical history and conducts a physical exam. 

Diagnostic testing, such as an X-ray or MRI, may be needed to get a better idea of what’s causing your back pain.

What are the treatments for back pain?

Treatment for your back pain depends on the underlying cause, the severity of your symptoms, and your medical history. Your orthopaedic specialist at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group creates individualized treatment plans to help you get the relief you seek.

Your treatment may include:

• Anti-inflammatories
• Muscle relaxants
• Injections
• Heat and ice
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group is a full-service practice and also offers in-house physical therapy to design an exercise program to reduce your pain and improve strength and endurance.

If you fail to get relief from your back pain with conservative measures, surgery may be recommended. The experienced team at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group uses the most advanced techniques available to ensure you get the best possible outcomes.

Back pain is common and treatable. For an evaluation and treatment plan, contact Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group by phone or online today.