Back Pain Specialist
Arizona Neurology Care
Neurology & Epilepsy Specialist located in Chandler, AZ & Queen Creek, AZ
Every year, millions of Americans miss work or visit the doctor due to back pain. In fact, about 80% of people will experience back pain at some time during their lives. At Arizona Neurology Care in Chandler, Arizona, expert neurologist Hussam Seif-Eddeine, MD, and the team work with people of all ages to diagnose and treat back pain. To schedule an appointment, call the office and speak with a friendly staff member or book your visit online today.
Back Pain
What is back pain?
Back pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages, races, and genders. Your spine contains 33 vertebrae and dozens of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These hard and soft tissues work in coordination to support the weight of your upper body. They assist you in bending, lifting, walking, and running.
Although your back is tough, it isn’t invincible. Playing sports, going to work, and general wear-and-tear take their toll. Over time, this can lead to aches, pains, and general discomfort.
What are the symptoms of back pain?
The symptoms of back pain vary depending on the underlying cause. Common indications of back pain include:
- Muscle aches
- Sharp stabbing or shooting pain
- Pain that radiates into your legs
- Pain that’s worse during physical activity
If you experience back pain, you might also notice that your symptoms improve whenever you sit or lie down.
What causes back pain?
Back pain occurs for a variety of reasons, including muscle and ligament strains, arthritis, skeletal irregularities, and osteoporosis.
Sometimes, back pain occurs due to bulging or herniated discs. Spinal discs cushion and support the vertebrae in your spine. If the soft material inside of a disc bulges outward, it can put pressure on a spinal nerve, causing irritation.
How is back pain diagnosed?
To diagnose back pain, your Arizona Neurology Care provider conducts a physical exam and reviews your medical history. During your exam, your provider assesses your ability to sit, stand, walk, and lift your legs.
These measures help your provider determine the source of your back pain and its effect on your mobility and overall quality of life. After gathering this information, your provider orders diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI to get a closer look at the bones, joints, and soft tissues in your spine.
How is back pain treated?
Treatment of back pain depends on the severity of your symptoms. Whenever possible, the team at Arizona Neurology Care usually recommends conservative treatments like rest, ice, and taking over-the-counter pain medications.
If your back pain persists or gets worse, you might benefit from prescription medications like muscle relaxants or spinal injections. If your back pain is due to a sport or work-related injury, you might also benefit from physical therapy. If your back pain doesn’t respond to more conservative treatments, you might benefit from surgery.
Don’t let back pain keep you from your favorite activities. Schedule an appointment at Arizona Neurology Care today, call the office and speak with a friendly team member or book online.
