Low back pain is a very common complaint patients have. The good news is that most low back pain goes away on its own even without treatment. However, some back pain does not go away and continues to cause functional limitations for some patients.
The doctor initially may order anti-inflammatory and physical therapy as tolerated to treat your back pain.
When Should I Be Worried About Lower Back Pain?
If the pain lasts for four weeks or longer, if it gets worse over time, or if you experience other symptoms such as fever, major weight loss or gain, loss of function or weakness in extremities, bladder problems, etc.
How do Doctors Fix Lower Back Pain?
In your first doctor appointment for lower back pain, the physician may order an X-ray or an MRI of the lumbar spine to further investigate the causes of the back pain. After that, the doctor will put the history, physical exam and radiology reports together to come up with differential diagnosis which may include, but not limited to, the following causes
- Muscle spasm
- Disc issues (Herniation, tear, desiccation, etc…)
- Facet joint (spinal column joints) arthritis
- Sacroiliac joint arthritis and
- Other causes
Lower Back Pain Treatments
The treatment will depend on the cause (or causes) of the pain which will include but not be limited to:
- Medication management
- Decompression table treatment,
- Injections (lumbar epidural steroid injections, Facet joint injections, Sacroiliac joint injections, etc)
- Referrals if needed to other specialty physicians, such as surgical referrals.
Pain is a complex and difficult problem to manage, and the causes of pain can vary significantly. While medications often provide temporary relief, treatment for chronic pain requires a more comprehensive approach. This includes identifying the cause of the pain, as well as exploring potential treatments that address both physical and psychological aspects of the condition. By understanding the root cause of pain, physicians can develop an individualized treatment plan that may include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medication management, and other evidence-based therapies.
Lower Back Pain Symptoms That Require Urgent Care
- Severe back pain after a fall or injury
- Loss of bowel or bladder control, numbness in the groin area, leg weakness, fever
- A history of cancer, unintentional weight loss, long-term steroid use, weak immune system, and history of IV drug use.
This article is for informational use only not intended to provide medical advice.
If you are interested in making an appointment please call 813-333-1819 or reach out to our team in Florida to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Benni is a Comprehensive Pain Management Doctor based in West Central Florida. With over 10 years of exerience as a Certified Pain Specialist, Dr. Benni is passionate about providing Comprehensive Pain Management Services to guarantee the best Quality of Pain Care to his patients in Tampa, and Brandon Florida. To reach out, submit a new patient form appointment request here.
The information provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.