Spine Care
Orthopedic care for back pain and spinal injury
A sudden fall or heavy lifting may cause a back or spinal injury that results in acute pain lasting up to six weeks. Back pain that lasts more than three months is considered chronic and can be caused by several conditions of the spine: sciatica, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or a herniated disk. Back pain is one of the most common reasons for visits to an orthopedic surgeon or advanced practice clinician (APC).
Diagnosing back pain and conditions
Most acute back pain will improve with a few weeks of at-home treatment using over-the-counter pain relievers and heat or ice. Severe injuries may require surgery, occupational therapy, and lifestyle changes.
If you have unrelenting chronic pain, surgery may be necessary. This is true with radiating leg pain or progressive muscle weakness caused by nerve compression or pain related to structural problems such as narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) or lumbar disk disease (herniated disk).
In addition to a complete history and physical exam, your orthopedic surgeon or APC may suggest a diagnostic study to evaluate your condition: x-ray, CT scan, MRI scan, imaging, and electrical studies.