Back Pain

Back pain is a leading cause of work disruptions and medical complaints, with nearly 65 million Americans reporting they’ve recently struggled with it. For effective back pain solutions, rely on the experienced orthopedic surgeons at Austin Sports Medicine. The practice has locations in Central and South Austin, as well as offices in Bee Cave, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville, Texas, to ensure you have access to prompt, compassionate care. To book your next visit, call the nearest office or use the online scheduling tool today.

What causes back pain?

Back pain is something that many people experience and it can affect different parts of your spine. Low back pain is particularly common, whether due to injuries or degenerative conditions. Some of the most common causes of back pain include:

• Degenerative disc disease
• Arthritis
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Strains and sprains
• Spondylolisthesis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Sciatica

Back pain can affect anyone — kids, teens, adults, and especially seniors. It might follow an injury or develop gradually due to long-term wear-and-tear.

While most back pain results from problems with the spine or its structures, it can sometimes be linked to other conditions, such as kidney stones or endometriosis.

What symptoms are associated with back pain?

The symptoms of back pain can vary depending on the cause. They might be mild, moderate, or severe, but they are usually disruptive to daily life.

Pain is the most common symptom. It can stay localized in the back or radiate down the legs, and it might feel like a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing sensation. Other symptoms to watch out for include:

• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Limited range of motion
• Difficulty standing or sitting
• Tenderness

In some cases, if the back pain is really severe, it could lead to issues with bowel or bladder control, which is a medical emergency.

How is back pain treated?

Treatment for back pain depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the pain. At Austin Sports Medicine, the team takes the time to evaluate each patient and create a personalized treatment plan. They also aim to schedule appointments quickly, which can be crucial if back pain is interfering with daily routines and commitments.

Austin Sports Medicine offers both surgical and nonsurgical options to provide long-term relief. Some of the most common nonsurgical treatments include:

• Ice and heat
• Physical therapy
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroid injections
• Modifying activity levels

If nonsurgical treatments don’t provide enough relief and the pain is severe, surgery may be necessary. There are different types of spine surgery, and the team recommends the best one based on the cause of your pain and the specific symptoms you’re experiencing.

To make an appointment or learn more, call the nearest Austin Sports Medicine location or request a consultation via the website today.