Back Pain

What is Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work. It can range from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning, or stabbing sensation. Pain may radiate down the leg and can worsen with bending, twisting, lifting, standing, or walking. Most back pain improves with home treatment and self-care within a few weeks. However, back pain that lasts longer than 12 weeks is considered chronic and may require more intensive treatment approaches.

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may include: • Physical examination to assess range of motion and nerve function • X-rays to show bone alignment and detect arthritis or broken bones • MRI or CT scans to reveal herniated disks, problems with bones, muscles, tissue, tendons, nerves, ligaments, and blood vessels • Blood tests to rule out infection or other conditions • Bone scan to look for bone tumors or compression fractures

Treatment

Treatment options include: • Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications • Muscle relaxants for severe muscle spasms • Physical therapy including exercises to increase flexibility and strengthen back and abdominal muscles • Heat or ice application • Injection therapies for pain relief • Surgery in severe cases (spinal fusion, laminectomy, or disk replacement) • Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care