By Amanda N. Sacino, MD-PhD . Neurosurgeon and Managing Partner
Back pain is a pervasive health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. In many cases, the discomfort is temporary, resolving with rest, physical therapy, or medication. However, when pain persists, radiates to other areas of the body, or affects mobility, it may signal a more serious problem. Consulting with a spine specialist becomes crucial to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying cause of these symptoms. We will explore the top reasons to consult with a spine specialist, focusing on back pain, radiating leg pain, and difficulties with walking and gait.
1. Chronic or Severe Back Pain
One of the most common reasons people seek the expertise of a spine specialist is chronic or severe back pain. Occasional back pain is normal and can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as poor posture, muscle strain, or minor injuries. However, when back pain lasts for more than a few weeks or becomes debilitating, it may indicate an issue that requires specialized attention.
A neurosurgical spine specialist has the knowledge and tools to determine whether your back pain is caused by spinal disc degeneration, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other serious conditions and can also recommend advanced treatment options such as physical therapy, epidural injections, or, in severe cases, surgical interventions like spinal fusion or laminectomy. By addressing the root cause of your back pain, a spine specialist can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall quality of life.
Common Causes of Chronic Back Pain
. Herniated Disc: When the soft, gel-like interior of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, it can press on nearby nerves, causing significant pain and discomfort.
. Degenerative Disc Disease: Over time, spinal discs can lose their elasticity and ability to absorb shock, leading to chronic pain, particularly in the lower back.
. Spinal Stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, placing pressure on the spinal ‘ cord and nerves, often resulting in pain and mobility issues.
. Compression fracture: This condition occurs when the vertebrae within the spine collapse due to either osteoporosis or trauma, resulting in acute and chronic back pain.
A spine specialist is uniquely qualified to assess these symptoms and recommend treatments that can alleviate nerve compression and improve mobility. They may suggest non-surgical options, such as physical therapy or bracing, or more advanced interventions like decompression surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Common Conditions That Affect Walking and Gait
. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Causes leg pain, numbness, and difficulty walking, often relieved by sitting or bending forward.
. Cervical Myelopathy: Can affect both the legs and arms, leading to difficulties with balance and
coordination.
. Spondylolisthesis: Occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, potentially compressing nerves and affecting mobility.
Conclusion – Back pain, radiating leg pain, and difficulty with walking are all symptoms that can significantly impact your quality of life. While some of these issues may resolve with conservative treatments, persistent or severe symptoms often require the expertise of a spine specialist. The neurosurgical spine specialists at Apex Brain & Spine can accurately diagnose the root cause of your discomfort and provide tailored treatment plans to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and prevent further complications. For those few patients who do go to need surgery, we offer robotic-assisted, minimally-invasive surgery for the patient’s fastest recovery.
If you are experiencing chronic back pain, sciatica, or mobility issues that affect your daily activities, do not hesitate to seek the advice of the spine specialists at Apex Brain & Spine. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing your condition and improving your long-term prognosis. By addressing the underlying causes of these symptoms,we can help you regain control of your health and return to a more active, pain-free lifestyle.
239-422-APEX (2739)
3530 Kraft Road, Suite 203 • Naples, FL 34105
www.apexbrainandspine.com