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Neck and Lower Back Pain

July 28 | drsingh

Neck pain and lower back pain can cripple your day-to-day lifestyle, possibly preventing you from going to work, keeping with young children, and most of all you are in constant pain. Pain medications are available but it does not address the root cause of the pain.

Are you suffering from neck pain or lower back pain because of one or more of the following scenarios?

1. Sitting in front of the computer for work?
2. Playing sports and had an injury?
3. An auto accident that caused you whip lash or surgery?
4. A fall?

What is lower back pain?

You’ve probably experienced back pain at some point in your life. Most people do at least once. Back pain varies widely in type and severity, ranging from a sharp, stabbing pain to a dull ache. Some types of back pain become worse with certain activities, like walking or bending over to pick something up.

Most of the time, back pain goes away within a few weeks with simple home treatments like heat, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If your back pain persists or worsens despite home care, schedule an appointment with Dr. Singh.

What causes neck and lower back pain?

Dr. Singh treats several problems that cause back pain or lower back pain, including:

Muscle strain

Back pain that comes on suddenly is usually the result of a muscle or ligament strain. You can strain your back muscles and spinal ligaments during a fall or repeated heavy lifting.

Bulging discs 

If you have back pain that develops gradually without a clear cause, it may be a sign of a bulging or ruptured disc. Spinal discs are pads of cartilage that act as cushions in between your back bones. 

A bulging or ruptured disc happens when some of the soft, gel-like material from inside the disc leaks through a weak spot in the outer layer. If a bulging disc presses on a spinal nerve, back pain may result. 

Arthritis

The most common type of arthritis to affect your spine is osteoarthritis. In some cases, arthritis can cause the space around your spinal cord to narrow. This condition is called spinal stenosis. 

How is back pain treated?

First, Dr. Singh reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. He may also take tests like an X-ray to check for fractures and arthritis or a nerve study to find out if you have a pinched nerve.

Then, he recommends the best course of treatment for your particular type of back pain. Most cases of back pain improve with chiropractic and physical therapy care.

Contact us for your initial appointment – we don’t take walk-ins – HERE