Back pain often indicates something is off in your spinal muscles, joints, or nerves. In most cases, the symptoms usually improve with rest and home care treatment. However, if the symptoms deteriorate, you can trust Castle Hills Family Practice to offer comprehensive care that will leave you healthy and strong.
When back pain becomes a medical concern
Back pain is one of the factors that cause most people to seek medical attention or miss school or work, and it is part of the leading causes of disability. Fortunately, medical experts have developed contemporary ways of preventing and alleviating back pain episodes. Home care treatment and adequate rest often relieve symptoms in mild cases. However, if the pain worsens over time, it may be time to involve your doctor.
Back pain may manifest as a stabbing, shooting, aching, or burning sensation. The pain may also travel down your legs or deteriorate with twisting, walking, standing, or lifting. If your pain radiates down both legs, is accompanied by sudden weight loss, or causes numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs, inform your doctor immediately. Rarely does back pain signify a life-threatening medical disorder, but if you notice bladder or bowel problems or a fever, seek immediate medical care.
Factors contributing to back pain
Back pain can occur due to fatigue or repetitive movements; rest should relieve it. However, it is wise to inform your doctor, who can rule out other severe medical conditions. Your pain may stem from structural problems like arthritis, ruptured discs, sciatica, osteoporosis, and bulging discs. The medical team uses cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to provide an accurate diagnosis. They may discuss your symptoms and conduct a CT scan, X-ray or MRI to evaluate the soft tissues in your back. Sometimes, the team may involve a chiropractor who analyzes the image scans and urine and blood tests.
Available treatments for back pain
After diagnosis, your doctor may educate you about the available treatment options before developing an effective treatment plan. At first, your provider starts with short-term medication, physical therapy, and habit changes. If you are overweight, the team may discuss the negative impact of the extra weight on your spine and how it may delay your healing process. The compassionate team may work closely with you in developing a medical weight loss program that accelerates your healing process and boosts your general health.
If the conservative treatments prove futile, your provider may recommend minimally invasive procedures such as cortisone injections. Although these injections don’t guarantee long-term relief, they can alleviate your pain and minimize inflammation for several months. During this period, your doctor schedules you for nonsurgical options such as physical therapy to strengthen your muscles and promote healing.
How you can lower your risk of back pain
While it is impossible to eliminate your risk of back pain, learning proper body mechanics and keeping fit can reduce your chances of developing it. Your provider may recommend regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking to minimize risk.
To explore more about back pain treatments, call the office or Click on the booking tool to create an appointment.
