“The key to staying youthful is a flexible spine.” – Mandy Ingber

Talk to anyone who suffers from back pain, and they will assure you that it can have an impact that permeates all aspects of their lives. According to Medical news today, “back pain is a common reason for absence from work and for seeking medical treatment. It can be uncomfortable and debilitating.” Something as simple as sitting can become a painful experience. A pain management specialist can help!

A strain or a pulled muscle will typically improve with over the counter pain relievers and rest, but more serious conditions should not go unchecked. The important thing that people need to know is that if you are uncertain about what to do for your back, contact a specialist physician. Even though back pain is a fairly common ailment, it is best not to delay treatment. In cases where mid to upper back pain worsens over time, does not improve with rest and the application of non-prescription pain medications, or involves neurological indicators then it is wise to be examined by a back pain health professional such as those found at MidSouth Pain Treatment Center.

A Healthy Spine for a Happy Back

A healthy back makes it possible to bend and stretch without discomfort. The spinal column has three contours that help maintain balance. Sturdy, supple muscles help support and protect the spine. These muscles, comprised of the core stomach, buttocks, and thighs, also support the upper body, easing the strain on the spine. Cushioned discs separate the bones of your spine. These disks are what allow the spine to move, bend, and stretch.

diagram of spine from pain management specialist

Regions of the Back

  • Upper – This area of the back and spine is referred to as the Thoracic. The upper back is well suited to protect vital internal organs and the rib cage. It is resistant to injury and pain to a surprising degree. The muscles in this area are remarkably sturdy, and it usually takes an accident or damage to incur pain. The large muscles can develop tightness and discomfort due to overuse and repetitive movement. Injury or aging can affect the joints in the spine causing pain and limited movement.
  • Lower – The lower area of the back is known as the Lumbar region and is a complex combination of muscles, bone structures, ligaments, and nerves that function to provide flexibility, strength, and support. This same combination creates opportunities for acute ligament, joint, and disc pain. Muscle strain and ligament strain are two leading factors that can cause lower back pain.

Why Back Health is Important

The back is critical to the capability to move, rest, and function effectively. Simply put, almost every action and motion of the body stems from the spine.

Without a healthy back, daily tasks and activities become difficult. Sitting, standing, bending over, going for walks, and moving the neck become challenging and agonizing. If the back is injured, you are likely to have restricted flexibility. The failure to move without pain can be a setback to the quality of life. It is vital to be aware of the importance of back health and appreciate its function in overall well being.

Fortunately, a pain management specialist can help to diagnose any issues you might have with your back.

Is My Spine Damaged?

Back pain might exhibit in a wide variety of ways. The pain might be persistent, periodic, or happen with particular positions or movement. It could stay in one place or spread to other parts of the back. It might be a dull ache, or perhaps a piercing or burning feeling. The issue could be in the neck or upper back yet radiate into the legs, feet, arms, and hands.

Acute back pain occurs out of the blue and typically will last from a couple of days to several weeks. Chronic back pain, on the other hand, can last for months. The back is designed to be strong, protecting the incredibly fragile spinal cord, but still flexible, for a range of motion in all directions.

Despite this, there are various areas of the back that could generate back pain, such as discomfort to the tiny nerves inside the spinal column, stress to the sizable back muscles, as well as damage to the discs, bones, joints, and ligaments. The most common cause of back pain is an injury. Other factors include arthritis, degenerative disc disease, Sacroiliitis (the joints between the spine and the hip become inflamed producing severe pain), advanced age, and hereditary factors.

When Is It Time to Consult a Pain Management Specialist?

When the discomfort includes any of the following elements, it is recommended that you check with a back doctor for an assessment:

  • Pain caused by an accident.
  • Back pain that is continuous and intensifies over time.
  • Pain that persists four to six weeks or more.
  • Severe pain that fails to get better after several days of using conventional treatments, for instance, rest, ice, and over the counter pain relievers.
  • Pain so intense that it awakens you from sleep.
  • Associated abdominal pain, or neurological problems, including weakness, numbness, or tingling in the legs arms, hands, and feet.
pain management specialist pointing to spine with patient

Finding a Pain Management Specialist Near Me

At MidSouth Pain Treatment Center we offer a wide range of medical care and treatment for back pain. We assess tenderness, the range of motion, strength, and reflexes. Based on the symptoms, additional tests may be required, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. We use the resulting data to suggest suitable treatment strategies for specific conditions. Should you have any questions or concerns about back pain or our treatment options, please feel free to contact us.

Our highly proficient medical professionals are focused on providing productive, pain management options. Our patient-centered approach allows us to identify and help reduce the source of pain, thereby helping to improve the overall quality of life and a faster return to everyday activities.

Back pain can be debilitating and impact your ability to function and perform routine tasks. If the pain is severe and long-lasting, a healthcare provider that specializes in back pain should be consulted.