Low Back Pain Treatment
Back pain – especially low back pain – is a common occurrence. In fact, it is estimated that approximately 31 million Americans experience low back pain at any given time.The reason low back pain is so common is because the bones (vertebrae) in your lumbar region (lower back) are the largest in your spine and support the weight of your upper body, having to withstand powerful forces from actions such as bending, lifting, and twisting. That makes the lower back more susceptible to numerous painful injuries and conditions.
Depending on the underlying cause, your back pain can range from mild to severe, lasting just a few days or lingering for several months. It may also worsen during certain activities, such as standing or walking for long periods of time, bending and lifting, or sitting for hours at a time.
Low Back Pain Triggers
Because the lumbar spine is composed of muscles, ligaments, bones, and nerves, damage to any of these structures can trigger low back pain. Conditions include:
Low Back Pain Treatment
Back pain can also be the result of trauma from a fall, a car accident, or a sports injury. Whatever the cause, any kind of back pain can make it difficult for you to perform regular activities.
At Ahlgren Spine, we can diagnose your low back pain based on a comprehensive examination and review of your symptoms and medical history, as well as having you perform simple back and leg movements to evaluate your muscle strength and range of motion.
We may also require diagnostic testing, such as X-rays, a bone scan, MRI, or CT scan and, if necessary, test your nerve function with a nerve conduction study (NCS)or electromyogram (EMG).
Non Surgical Low Back Pain Treatments
Once we determine the cause of your back pain, our team at Ahlgren Spine will develop a personalized treatment plan, depending on the specific cause and severity of your back pain. This may include such nonsurgical options as:
- Pain-relieving medication
- Physical therapy
- Nerve blocks
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Steroid injections
- Wearing a supportive brace
However, if your back pain persists despite these measures or is due to a structural abnormality, surgery may be required. Learn about some of the thoracic and lumbar spine treatments we offer.
Back Pain Relief in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, Michigan
If you’re experiencing back pain, don’t just tough it out. Call the specialists at Ahlgren Spine at (248) 215-8080 to arrange a consultation with Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren, or use our online appointment request form to schedule a meeting. We look forward to helping relieve your pain and getting you back to doing the things you enjoy.