Back Pain Specialist

What is back pain?

Back pain is characterized by any stiffness, aching, or general discomfort that affects your spine. Often, it occurs as a result of physical activity, like working or playing sports, but it can also occur due to an underlying issue, like a herniated disc or pinched nerve.

When should I see a pain specialist about back pain?

Most types of back pain respond to at-home treatments like over-the-counter pain medication, rest, or ice and heat therapy. If your symptoms last for longer than a week, make an appointment with Dr. Rich. That’s especially true if your pain spreads into your legs or occurs alongside swelling or redness.

What causes back pain?

Back pain occurs for various reasons, including:

• Strains
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Pinched nerves
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Sports injuries
• Car accidents

You might also experience back pain if you have osteoporosis, a chronic disease that causes your bones to become weak and brittle.

How is back pain diagnosed?

To diagnose back pain, Dr. Rich reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including their severity and when they first started. Next, he examines your back and assesses your ability to walk and perform a series of easy exercises. 

These tests help Dr. Rich determine the location of your pain and how much you’re able to move before experiencing severe symptoms. If Dr. Rich suspects your pain is a result of arthritis or another underlying structural issue, he might order diagnostic imaging like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI.

How is back pain treated?

At aCELLerated Interventional Orthopedics, Dr. Rich has years of experience treating back pain with minimally invasive procedures. After determining the source of your discomfort, he might recommend:

• Epidural steroid injections
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Superion Vertiflex™ for spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine)
• Sacroiliac joint fusion
• Vertebroplasty
• Interspinous fusion

These treatment options are safe, effective, and provide long-lasting outcomes. 

Is there any way to prevent back pain?

If you want to reduce the risk of back pain, Dr. Rich recommends eating a balanced, nutritious diet, exercising regularly, practicing good posture, and always lifting with your legs. Healthy lifestyle changes and behavior modifications can make all the difference.

To receive treatment for back pain, make an appointment at aCELLerated Interventional Orthopedics by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.