Get help from the top back pain doctor in New York by calling (516) 355-0111 for an appointment at New York Spine Specialist.
According to Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute, more than 65 million Americans experience chronic back pain, making it one of the most expensive and disruptive health conditions. As a back pain specialist in NYC, New York Spine Specialist helps people living with debilitating pain that keeps them from going to work, enjoying life, or just getting out of bed. With a comprehensive treatment and pain management plan, we’ll help reduce pain, restore flexibility and mobility, and get you back to living a healthy and active lifestyle.
With decades of experience providing interventional spine treatments for a wide range of neck and back conditions and injuries, we can find the root of the problem and develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Knowing the most common causes of back pain and when to seek help is the first step to finding relief for your aching back.
The Most Common Reasons for Back Pain
Most people experience minor backaches at some point. The World Health Organization reports that 90% of the time, lower back pain is nonspecific and not due to any identifiable cause. This discomfort is usually temporary and doesn’t require treatment from a back pain specialist in NYC.
Ongoing or chronic back pain is a more serious issue that typically requires a medical evaluation. The spine and back are complex structures vulnerable to damage from injury, disease, lifestyle factors, and more. Overuse from daily activities, poor posture, or ongoing strenuous activity can also disrupt your back’s structure and cause pain.
Some of the most common conditions that lead to back pain include the following.
Spinal Arthritis
When the joints between the spinal vertebrae shrink or become too thin, usually from age or overuse, the result is often inflammation and pain. Arthritis also increases the risk of painful bone spurs in the spine.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The two sacroiliac joints at the base of the spine connect the spine and pelvis. Injury or strain on this joint from excess weight, pregnancy, poor posture, or other lifestyle factors can cause lower back pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, groin, and upper back.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is an age-related condition where the spinal column narrows and puts pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord. Spinal stenosis causes lower back pain and leg weakness that affects balance and your ability to walk.
Lumbar Radiculopathy
Also known as sciatica, lumbar radiculopathy is a pinched nerve in the lower back that results in burning or tingling sensations in the back and legs and severe pain in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and feet. The National Library of Medicine estimates up to 40% of adults will experience sciatica in their lives.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is one or more slipped vertebrae, usually due to wear and tear that degenerates the disk. The condition may also be congenital or occur in athletes that put stress on their spines.
Herniated Discs
One of the most common causes of lower back pain, a herniated disc (also known as a slipped or ruptured disc), is a condition where the cushioning between the spinal vertebrae sustains damage. The disc may bulge, putting pressure on the surrounding nerves or tendons, or rupture and leak fluid that irritates the surrounding tissue. Herniated discs are usually the result of wear and tear but can occur after an injury.
When to See a New York Back Pain Specialist
Back pain often resolves with rest and home treatment. However, ongoing back pain that disrupts your life is cause to see a spine specialist for more in-depth diagnosis and treatment.
Make an appointment to see a back pain specialist in NYC if:
- Pain increases in severity or spreads down your legs
- Pain worsens or doesn’t improve within seven to 10 days
- You experience tingling, weakness, or numbness in your arms or legs
- You have difficulty urinating or lose bowel or bladder control
- You have difficulty walking or standing
- Pain worsens at night or when you lie down
- You have other signs of illness, including unexplained weight loss or fever
Managing Back Pain
Many people are reluctant to seek help for back pain out of fear they will need surgery. However, New York back pain specialists will exhaust all non-surgical treatment options before recommending surgery.
In addition to surgical solutions, we specialize in non-narcotic interventional pain management to reduce back pain. Options include:
- Steroid injections
- Working with a physical therapist to increase strength and mobility
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Bracing
- Lifestyle changes
Our personalized approach to back pain care ensures you can move forward with a more active, pain-free life.
Get Relief From Back Pain Today
If back pain disrupts your life, make an appointment with New York Spine Specialist at (516) 355-0111. As the leading back pain specialist in NYC, we’ll get to the root of the issue and help you find relief from symptoms. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection) plans, and same-day appointments may be available.
Do you have more questions about what causes back spasms and other problems? Turn to New York Spine Specialist for the answers; speak to a professional today.
FAQs About Back Pain
How can I relieve back pain at home?
Once a healthcare provider rules out a serious back problem, you can relieve minor back pain by stretching, taking over-the-counter medication, heat and cold therapy, and massage.
What are the signs of a serious back problem?
“Red flags” that indicate issues requiring help from a back pain specialist in NYC include sudden trauma, severe pain lasting longer than six weeks, pain in children, poor bladder and bowel control, and signs of neurological problems.
Can stress cause back pain?
Neck and back pain is a common side effect of stress. Stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol can cause muscles to tense, which ultimately may lead to pain.
