By Amanda N. Sacino, MD-PhD . Neurosurgeon and Managing Partner
Back pain is a common problem that most people will experience at some point in their lives. It can range from mild discomfort to serious, debilitating pain. Often, the cause of back pain is related to specific conditions affecting the spine. Understanding these conditions and knowing how to manage them can help protect your spine and improve your quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore five common causes of back pain and how to address them.
1. Compression Fracture
A compression fracture occurs when a vertebra in your spine collapses or is compressed, usually due to weakened bones from osteoporosis. This type of fracture often causes sudden, severe back pain, particularly when standing or moving. Left untreated, it can lead to kyphosis, or a rounded back.
What to do about it: If you suspect a compression fracture, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment typically involves pain management, rest, and wearing a lumbar brace to stabilize the spine and limit movement. In some cases, a procedure such as kyphoplasty may be recommended to repair the fracture. Prevent future fractures by maintaining bone health through adequate calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercises.
2. Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when one of the soft, gel-like discs between the vertebrae becomes damaged and pushes out of place, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This can cause significant pain, as well as numbness or tingling in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the herniation. Herniated discs often result from wear and tear over time or from an injury.
What to do about it: Herniated discs can often be managed with conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest. Physical therapy exercises strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine, helping to alleviate pressure on the herniated disc. A lumbar brace can provide additional support by limiting movement and reducing pain. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the damaged portion of the disc and relieve nerve pressure.
3. Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, leading to spinal instability. This misalignment can compress nerves, causing pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs. Spondylolisthesis can result from congenital defects, spinal degeneration, trauma, or stress fractures.
What to do about it: Mild cases of spondylolisthesis can be treated with rest, physical therapy, and pain management. A lumbar brace can help stabilize the spine and prevent further slippage of the vertebrae. Strengthening the core muscles in your back and abdomen through physical therapy can reduce symptoms and improve spinal stability. In more severe cases, where nerves are compressed, surgery may be required to realign and stabilize the spine.
4. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of spaces within the spine, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It typically results from age-related changes, such as thickened ligaments or bone spurs. People with spinal stenosis often experience pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, buttocks, or legs, which worsens with walking or standing and improves with sitting.
What to do about it: For mild spinal stenosis, physical therapy can strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, while anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain. Targeted epidural steroid injections can decrease inflammation of the nerves. A lumbar brace can also help by providing support and reducing pressure during physical activity. If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, surgery, such as a laminectomy, may be necessary to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves.
5. Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease occurs as the discs between the vertebrae lose hydration and flexibility with age. This can cause the discs to thin, bulge, or herniate, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Pain is often worse with certain activities, such as lifting or twisting.
What to do about it: Conservative treatments, like physical therapy, targeted epidural steroid injections, and anti-inflammatory medications, are often effective for managing degenerative disc disease. Physical therapy can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. A lumbar brace may also be recommended to limit motion and provide additional support during daily activities. In severe cases, where conservative treatments are not effective, surgical options such as spinal fusion or disc replacement may be necessary to stabilize the spine.
When to Seek Help
If you experience chronic back pain that lasts for more than a few weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking, it’s important to seek medical help. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and help you get back to a pain-free life.
At Apex Brain & Spine Neurosurgical Specialists in Naples, Florida, our team of expert neurosurgeons, including Dr. Amanda Sacino and Dr. Gregory Cannarsa, specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of spinal conditions. Whether you’re dealing with compression fractures, herniated discs, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, we provide personalized care tailored to your specific needs. We offer conservative treatment options, such as lumbar bracing and physical therapy, as well as advanced surgical solutions when necessary. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free spine.
Apex Brain & Spine Neurosurgical Specialists
239-422-APEX (2739)
3530 Kraft Road, Suite 203 • Naples, FL 34105
www.apexbrainandspine.com