When Should I See a Spine Specialist for My Back Pain?

Back pain is a common complaint for many Americans, and it can be limiting to a person’s daily life. Whether acute or chronic, back pain can feel like shooting, stabbing, burning, or aching in any area of the back. The back is made up of ligaments, muscles, joints and 33 bones, or vertebrae that form the spine and protect the spinal cord. When one of these components are compromised, it can affect the others.

Common Causes of Back Pain

While back pain is most likely to be seen in those between 30 and 50 years old, it can affect people of all ages and demographics. Back pain can be caused by irritated joints, muscle strains, arthritis, fracture, cancer, or injury. However, there are some spinal conditions that could be responsible for your back pain.

Degenerative Disc Disease

This is typically the weakening of one or more vertebral discs, which act as a cushion between the vertebrae bones. Although most people will display signs of changes to their spine over time, not everyone will experience symptoms. Some symptoms include pain with movement and weakness.

Spinal Stenosis

Commonly affecting the neck and lower back, spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the open spaces within the spine. This puts pressure or intrudes on the spinal cord and nerves that travel through the spinal column. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected areas.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is a common injury that can affect any part of the spine. Often referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc, a herniated disc happens when the gel-like substance that acts as a shock absorber is compromised. The symptoms mild to severe pain, numbness or tingling and weakness.

Although there are many other conditions that could cause a person to experience back pain, these are some common conditions that are known to cause pain in the back. You should consult a spine specialist if you’re experiencing back pain so that they can pinpoint the cause and define the best treatment plan as possible.

Why Plano Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center?

At POSMC, we understand that nothing compares to the quality of care a service you expect and deserve. That’s why we pledge to provide the highest quality healthcare and work environment. For more than 40 years, we have provided exceptional care for our community. Our spine specialists and orthopedic surgeons are committed to providing patients with a positive experience and quality care. If you have back pain, don’t let it take over your life. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Call POSMC today!

If you are experiencing shoulder pain in the Dallas, TX area call POSMC today!

To schedule an appointment with one our specialists, contact our scheduling department at 972-250-5700 or request an appointment online.

POSMC is a full-service medical facility specializing in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic injuries. The practice is led by a group of 12 board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. Contact us today!