Back pain can impact people of all ages for many different reasons. While it may resolve on its own with a little time, back pain that is persistent or severe can significantly reduce your overall quality of life and needs to be addressed. Knowing where to turn for help is essential for getting the right treatment – and relief – you need.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain is very common, but how it affects each person will vary. For instance, it may be acute or chronic. It could come with a sharp pain or a dull ache. It may be on the left side, right side, center, or all over. It may be upper back or lower back. And, back pain can be caused by a long list of things, like herniated disks, sore muscles, strains and sprains, poor posture, fractures, and even certain medical conditions.
Because there are so many factors surrounding back pain, getting to the root cause and finding the proper treatment is so important for relief.
When It is Time to Seek Medical Attention
If you have been injured in an accident of any kind, you should always get checked out to confirm no serious damage has been done. But, for those who have chronic back pain they have learned to tolerate — when is it time to seek medical attention?
- If your pain is severe or feels like it is getting worse
- If your pain begins to radiate down your legs or through your arms
- If your pain is accompanied by weakness or numbness
- If your pain interferes with your daily life
You know your body best. If you feel like you should seek medical attention for your back pain, then seek it without hesitation.
How a Pain Management Doctor Can Help
Pain management doctors specialize in both diagnosing and treating pain. So, when it comes to chronic back pain, they are the best choice for getting you the relief you have been searching for.
What sets a pain management doctor apart from others?
- Specialized Training. Pain management doctors specialize in treating pain. They uncover the cause of the pain and know the most effective solutions.
- Personalized Care. With careful evaluation, pain management doctors can personalize treatments to meet the needs of each patient.
- Treatment Options. Pain management doctors specialize in treatments that relieve pain. This may include various treatments, such as nerve block, epidural steroid injection, spinal cord stimulation, radiofrequency ablation, and more.
Additionally, these doctors focus on the patient’s ability to get through their day, participating in daily activities and improving overall quality of life. They have the skills, tools, and knowledge to transform lives.
Frequently Asked Questions about Back Pain
How do you know when back pain is serious?
If your pain does not improve in a couple of weeks or if severe back pain cannot be relieved with over-the-counter medication, see your doctor.
How can you tell if back pain is muscular or something else?
Back pain that stems from a muscle will usually be in one localized area and may only hurt when you move a certain way or are in a certain position. If you aren’t sure, talk to a medical professional.
Find Treatment for Your Back Pain
American Pain Institute in Portsmouth, NH offers patients a comprehensive list of treatments for chronic, intractable pain, including headaches, arthritic joints, reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, and more. They also treat back pain.
With a state-of-the-art facility and customized treatment plans, you can expect to find comfort in healing and an improved overall quality of life.
To learn more about our specialists and how they can treat your back pain, contact us today at 603-766-8500 . Or, request an appointment online.