Back pain is one of the number one reasons people go to the doctor or have to miss work.

There are many causes of back pain from injury to the muscles and ligaments surrounding your spine to conditions affecting your nerves. Here’s just a few issues that can cause back pain:

• Disc problems – bulging discs, herniated (slipped) discs, degenerative disc disease
• Accidents or injuries
• Spinal stenosis – the narrowing of the spinal cord that puts pressure on nerves and can cause a numbing sensation
• Pinched nerves
• Arthritis of your spine – two of your vertebrae might be rubbing together or your disc might move out of place

The good news is – you don’t have to suffer from back pain in silence. We’ve got your back. NMC Health’s orthopedic spine specialists at NMC Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine clinic can help you find a treatment option right for you. You can make an appointment without a referral, unless required by your insurance.

When it comes to back pain, there are several ways to approach it. Depending on the severity of the injury or issue causing your back pain, your doctor might suggest seeing an orthopedic spine specialist.

Our specialists will assess your back and ask you questions about your medical history as well as when your back pain started. From there, the doctor might suggest physical therapy, pain management medication or surgery.

Millions of Americans experience back pain every year. You should see a doctor if you have any numbness, weakness, trouble going to the restroom or weight loss. Also, if you fall or hurt your back, you might want to consider making an appointment with your doctor just to get checked out.

If your back hurts, you might not necessarily need surgery. There are a lot of other methods you can try first to alleviate lower back pain: 

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine
• Heat packs and ice packs
• Massage
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Stretching and strengthening
• Diet and exercise to manage weight

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), you may have back pain due to moving too sharply or suddenly.

You can help prevent back pain by: 

• Being careful not to jolt your back with sudden movements
• Set up your office to be ergonomically correct
• Maintain good posture
• Lift objects and children with your knees and not bending with your back

If you’re still having back pain, speak with your doctor about your options.