What is Back Pain?

The bones that form our backs are called vertebrae. Each vertebra is cushioned and surrounded by discs. Discs provide cushion and support between each vertebra in our spinal columns. Over time and with injuries, the discs can become herniated or slip. The most common places this occurs are in the neck (cervical) or the lower back (lumbar). The most common symptoms of a herniated disc are pain, weakness in the neck or arms, or numbness. In order to diagnose this condition the patient will need to be examined by a physician specializing in spinal conditions. The physicians at Athletic Orthopedic and Knee Center will assess the patient by asking questions to determine more information about the patient. At that time our doctors will most likely order an MRI, CT scan or X-ray. The doctor will also instruct the patient to rest, and refrain from activities that aggravate their neck or cause any pain to that area. Finally the doctor will determine which treatment best suits that patient. Typically physical therapy is ordered first, in conjunction with pain and medicine to treat inflammation. In most cases this will aid in relief for our patients. In other cases the doctor may need to give the patient steroids, which also help with inflammation. Finally in extreme cases, or if the herniated disc is squeezing the spinal cord then the doctor may perform a surgery called a discectomy.