Back Pain Specialist

What is back pain?

Back pain is any discomfort that affects your spine or surrounding tissues. Sometimes, it’s a minor annoyance that responds to at-home treatments like ice and rest. For others, it’s an ongoing problem that makes routine tasks nearly impossible.

Back pain isn’t always serious, but it’s bound to get worse if you don’t receive treatment. If you experience symptoms that last for more than a few days or they get worse when you stand up or move around, contact Dr. Addona right away.

What causes back pain?

Back pain occurs for various reasons, including:

• Herniated discs
• Strains
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Accident injuries
• Work injuries
• Sports injuries
• Osteoporosis
• Bending awkwardly
• Twisting
• Poor posture
• Abnormalities of the spine

You might also experience back pain if you sleep on a mattress that doesn’t support your spine. 

Who is at risk of experiencing back pain?

Back pain affects people of all ages and races, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Pregnancy
• Weight issues
• Not getting enough exercise
• Smoking
• Poor physical fitness
• Underlying medical conditions like arthritis

You might also experience back pain due to genetic factors. For example, if your parents had a spine abnormality, you’re more likely to as well. 

How is back pain diagnosed?

To diagnose back pain, Dr. Addona reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including their severity and if any activities like working or exercising make them worse. Next, Dr. Addona conducts a complete exam, checking your muscle strength, reflexes, and range of motion. 

Dr. Addona might also order X-rays or another type of diagnostic imaging to rule out underlying issues, like a fracture, a strained muscle, or a herniated disc. 

How is back pain treated?

Dr. Addona has years of experience treating back pain using noninvasive measures that are safe and effective. Usually, he recommends healthy lifestyle changes first. For example, you might benefit from maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. 

If your symptoms persist or get worse, you might benefit from other treatments, such as chiropractic adjustments, strengthening exercises, flexion-distraction, or extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT). Dr. Addona also has an in-office store that carries products from FlexBand and Biofreeze. 

To explore the various treatment options for back pain, make an appointment at the practice of Mark Addona, DC, by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling feature today.