Back Pain Treatment Specialist

What are the most common causes of back pain?

The back comprises many structures, including bones, muscles and nerves, and injury to any of these tissues can cause back pain to develop. Back pain is the most common cause of doctor visits worldwide, and also a leading cause of absenteeism at work. Some of the most common causes of back pain include:

• car accidents, sports accidents, work accidents or slip-and-fall accidents

• repetitive motion activities, including bending and lifting

• heavy lifting

• overuse injuries

• herniated discs

• spine diseases, including arthritis, spondylolisthesis and spondylosis

• poor posture

• chronic stress

• obesity

• wearing ill-fitting shoes or high heels

• sleeping on a mattress or pillow that don't provide adequate support

How is the cause of back pain diagnosed?

Depending on your symptoms, the cause of your pain may be identified through a comprehensive office evaluation and a detailed history of your symptoms and your overall health. In some cases, diagnostic studies including x-rays or CT scans or nerve studies may be needed to determine the cause and to rule out other possible causes so your treatment can be tailored specifically to your needs.

How is back pain treated?

Most back pain can be treated with anti-inflammatory and pain medications, which may include both oral medications and injections near the site of pain. Physical therapy including therapeutic stretching exercises may help relieve some sources of pain, and wearing a back brace or making other changes in work habits may also help. Lifestyle changes like losing weight, investing in a better mattress and improving posture, especially while sitting or standing all day at work, can also help. Your treatment plan will be based specifically on your own needs, the condition you're experiencing and your overall health so you can achieve optimal benefits.