What is back pain?
Back pain varies in type and intensity, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, excruciating pain. The pain can come on suddenly or develop gradually. Sometimes, pain begins in your back and radiates to another part of your body, like an arm or leg. Symptoms like numbness and tingling in your limbs may occur with back pain.
What causes back pain?
From lifting something heavy to degenerative diseases that occur over time, many problems can cause back pain. Common causes of back pain include:
Injuries
Muscle strains and ligament sprains are leading causes of back pain. These injuries can result from poor posture, heavy lifting, or trauma like car accidents or sports injuries. Muscle spasms, also known as trigger points, can also cause pain.
Degenerative conditions
Osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease are common back pain causes that occur when the structures of your spine wear down with age.
Nerve and spinal cord problems
Anything that pinches, injures, or compresses your spinal cord or nerve roots can trigger pain. Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica are common nerve problems that cause back pain.
Other causes
Other widespread back disorders include osteoporosis, a condition that weakens your bones, and congenital conditions like scoliosis.
How is back pain diagnosed?
First, the Texas Wellness Clinic team thoroughly reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam.
They may take imaging tests, like an on-site digital X-ray, to evaluate the structures of your spine, or nerve studies, such as electromyography (EMG), to measure your nerve function. These tests help the team confirm a diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan.
How is back pain treated?
The Texas Wellness Clinic team specializes in conservative and integrative back pain treatment. Depending on your particular needs, they may recommend one or more of the following approaches:
- Heat and ice
- Gentle stretches and exercises
- Medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
- Trigger point injections
- Nutritional counseling
- Weight loss
They also provide on-site chiropractic and rehabilitation services, including spinal decompression therapy, soft tissue mobilization, active and passive rehabilitation, and chiropractic adjustments. Regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), is also available.
For comprehensive care of back pain, call Texas Wellness Clinic today or request an appointment online.
