The spine consists of several vertebrae, discs, ligaments, tendons, tissues and nerves that provide structural support to the body as well as enable its flexible movement. Irritation or inflammation of any of these components may lead to back pain. The condition may affect people of all age groups and cause severe discomfort as well as obstruct participation in daily activities. Back pain is most commonly seen in cervical and lumbar spine. Though the condition can be caused due to a myriad of reasons, in most cases, the symptoms can be effectively relieved with non-surgical treatment. Depending upon the severity of the condition, the orthopedic doctor may prescribe the following treatment options for back pain:
Medications: The patient may be prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, topical pain relievers etc. to provide relief from the pain and discomfort associated with the back pain.
Spinal Injections: If the pain is severe and radiating to the legs or other body parts, the orthopedic doctor may recommend injecting medicine into the epidural space. Spinal injections can provide immediate relief from back pain and reduce inflammation around the tendons, nerves as well as nerve roots.
Heat Or Ice Therapy: Applying heat pads, ice packs or using both alternatively can help to relieve stiffness, inflammation and muscle spasms in the back. Cold compresses can be used to reduce swelling in the back.
Braces: For patients with chronic back pain or a deformity in the spine, the doctor may recommend wearing a brace to provide support. Back braces can help to maintain proper posture, limit strenuous movement and realign the spine to provide relief from pain.
Physical Therapy: The physical therapist may apply heat, ice, electrical stimulation and other mechanisms to release stiffness from the back muscles. He may also help the patient learn posture correction techniques to prevent the pain from recurring.
Exercise: The orthopedic doctor may advise the patient to perform light stretching exercises to increase the flexibility of the muscles in the back. He may also recommend certain or exercises to strengthen the core and improve overall well-being of the patient.
The orthopedic surgeons at OrthoTexas provide complete diagnosis and treatment for pain in the upper, middle as well as lower back.