Back pain can put a strain on your daily life, making it nearly impossible to complete simple tasks. Without proper treatment, back pain can lead to other serious health risks.
When should you consider seeing a back and spine doctor for back pain?
While no one wants to need to visit the doctor, some cases of back pain require special attention. Here’s what you need to know.
What Causes Back Pain?
Any number of circumstances can cause back pain. However, the most common causes of back and neck pain include, but are not limited to:
- Poor posture
- Overuse of spine
- Spinal stenosis
- Wear and tear related to aging
- Nerve problems
- Inflammation
- Injury or disease
Certain illnesses, such as kidney stones, may also cause back pain in some people.
Home Remedies for Back Pain
You may be able to get relief for your back pain without visiting a specialist. The first thing you should do is make small changes in your daily life. Practice good posture, eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise during the day.
Yoga and similar activities can help take stress off of the spine. Even as little as 30 minutes of stretching each day can help unburden the spine and increase your range of motion.
You should take plenty of breaks at work as well, particularly if you spend a majority of the day sitting. Getting up and moving around gives your spine a break and can relieve tension in your lower spine. You may also want to consider investing in ergonomic seating to help you while you’re sitting.
Finally, you may benefit from massage therapy to ease your back pain. This can relieve muscle tension for a period of time, allowing you to go about your daily life with less stress.
When to See a Back and Spine Doctor
Natural remedies may not be enough to get rid of your back pain. If your back pain persists for over 3 months, you should seek out medical attention, as you may be suffering from a spinal injury or illness. The sooner you can determine the source of your back pain, the sooner you can get back to your normal life.
A specialist can get you in contact with a physical therapist to relieve your back pain. Your therapist will give you new tools and exercises that you can use to treat your back pain. You may also benefit from prescription medication if your back pain is severe.
In some extreme cases, spinal surgery may be required to fix errors in the spine. Talk with your doctor about what solutions work best for you.
Fix Your Back Pain Today
You don’t have to suffer from back pain forever. With the help of a back and spine doctor, you can get back to your regular activities pain-free. Remember, if you’re ever in doubt about the severity of your spinal injury, visit a doctor for a firm diagnosis.
Are you searching for a specialist to help relieve your back pain?
We’re here for you. Contact us with any questions you have about our spine doctors and continue reading our blog today.
