Back pain is common, but it’s not something to just shrug off. In fact, chronic back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, with over 540 million people affected. It can drastically affect your quality of life and even lead to depression, if left untreated. Numerous things can cause chronic back pain and knowing what’s causing your pain is key to finding relief.
Here are the most common causes of chronic back pain:
Muscle or Ligament Strain
Strains and sprains are the most common causes of back pain. They occur when the muscles or ligaments in your back are stretched beyond their limits.This type of strain can be caused by a sudden movement or poor posture over time.
The treatment for muscle or ligament strain is rest, ice and heat therapy, physical therapy, and, in some cases, medication.
Disc Problems
The discs between your vertebrae are filled with fluid and act as cushions when you move. When these discs become damaged or weakened, they can lead to back pain.
There are different kinds of disc problems:
- Herniated discs – when the inner material of a disc bulges through the outer part
- Degenerative discs – when discs become worn due to aging or wear and tear
- Bulging discs – when the outer part of a disc bulges outward
The treatment for disc problems includes rest and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a joint disorder that can cause chronic pain and inflammation of the joints. The two most common types of arthritis associated with back pain are:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears away, leading to bone rubbing against bone. This condition usually affects the spine.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. This condition can affect multiple joints in the back.
The treatment for arthritis includes medications and physical therapy. Your doctor can also recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercise and weight loss.
Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your legs. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause pain inthe lower back that goesall the way to the feet, in some cases.
Common causes of sciatica include:
- A herniated disc
- A bone spur
- A narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
The treatment for sciatica includes rest, ice and heat therapy, medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
When To Visit Your Doctor for Back Pain
If you are experiencing chronic back pain, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation. They will be able to determine the cause of the pain and help you with the following:
Diagnosis
An accurate diagnosis is key to finding relief. Your doctor may perform tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to determine the root cause of your pain.
Treatment
Once your doctor has determined the cause of your pain, they will be able to recommend the best treatment plan. This may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or even surgery.
Remember that each condition is different. Some of the mentioned causes of back pain can be treated, while others do not have a cure. Thus, those conditions can only be managed through pain management.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find relief right away. Working closely with your doctor is the best way to get the treatment you need. With the right combination of treatments, you can find relief and get your life back on track.
Prevention
Your doctor can also help you take steps to prevent future back pain. They may suggest lifestyle changes such as exercise, weight loss, proper posture, and ergonomics. They can also help you with ways to manage stress, which is often a contributing factor to chronic back pain.
In addition, your doctor can provide tips on how to avoid activities that could lead to further injury. Taking proactive steps to manage your back pain can help you stay out of chronic pain and live more actively.
Pain Management Doctors Near You in Wilmington, DE
Chronic back pain can be caused by a variety of factors ranging from disc problems to arthritis and sciatica. It’s important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Your treatment will depend on the cause of your pain and may include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Working together with your doctor can help you get the relief you need and prevent future back pain.
Are you looking for trusted pain management doctors near you? You can rely on experienced and highly trained healthcare providers at the Delaware Back Pain & Sports Rehabilitation Centers. To learn more about how we can help you, call our friendly staff at (302) 529-8783. You can also use our online appointment request form to book a visit with our top pain management doctors.
For your convenience, we have offices in Newark, Middletown, Smyrna, Dover, and Milford. We look forward to helping you live a pain-free and active life!
