Back Pain Specialist

What causes back pain?

Back pain can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, lasting six months or longer.

Typically, acute back pain is the result of muscle strains due to strenuous physical activity or muscle overuse. You can also experience acute back pain if you sit for long periods or live a sedentary lifestyle.

Chronic back pain may be the result of a spinal injury or an underlying, degenerative condition that causes the breakdown of your spinal structures.

Some of the most common causes of chronic back pain include:

• Arthritis
  
• Herniated disc
  
• Radiculopathy (nerve compression)
  
• Osteoporosis (loss of bone density)
  
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine)
  

It’s important that you seek a proper diagnosis at Northeast Ohio Spine Center if you experience persistent back pain that doesn’t improve with rest and home care, or if your back pain interferes with your ability to stay active.

How is back pain diagnosed?

To determine the root cause of your back pain, Dr. Grubb spends time getting to understand more about your lifestyle, your job, and your general health. He reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam to identify areas of tenderness, swelling, and pain in your back.

Dr. Grubb may order X-rays or other diagnostic imaging tests to see the inner structures of your spine and identify issues like arthritis or a herniated disc. Once he understands the cause of your pain, Dr. Grubb creates a treatment plan that focuses on pain relief and improving your spine health.

How is back pain treated?

Initially, your treatment for persistent back pain may involve non-surgical treatments like bracing to stabilize your back and help you heal. Dr. Grubb may also recommend topical pain creams to numb the area to increase your comfort.

You may also be a candidate for chiropractic care to improve your spinal alignment and general health. Dr. Grubb offers referrals to chiropractors in the area and monitors your recovery from spine injuries or disease.

If conservative therapies aren’t enough to treat your back pain, Dr. Grubb may recommend surgery. He uses minimally invasive techniques that require only small incisions and specialized tools to remove herniated discs and repair areas of damage within your spine.

To find out more about treatment options for back pain, call Northeast Ohio Spine Center or request a consultation using the online booking feature today.