How Long Is an Unacceptable Length of Back Pain?

Back discomfort is the only thing that may extend a long day even farther. Even basic actions like picking up a bag of groceries might seem daunting if you have lower back discomfort.

In addition, the reason of your lower back discomfort may be more complex than the actual twisting or lifting that brought it on, and avoiding future pain requires identifying the cause.

Dr. Hosun Hwang, a spinal specialist at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, said, “If you wait until your lower back pain is incapacitating before seeking treatment, you’ve waited too long.” “Most people’s back discomfort subsides after a week or two, but if your pain is persistent or chronic, you should see a spine expert.”

Why is there back pain?

Lower back pain may feel like aching, burning, or acute or dull pain that ranges from moderate to severe in severity. It might be the result of a sports injury, twisting or carrying something large, or yard chores.

According to Dr. Hwang, back discomfort may affect anybody, however some risk factors include:

1) Age — Seniors may be more prone to osteoarthritis and disc degeneration.
2) Occupation – workers whose professions require repeated bending, heavy lifting, or lengthy periods of standing or sitting are more prone to have back discomfort.
3) Weight — extra weight puts strain on the spine and back muscles.
4) Activity level – a sedentary lifestyle, coupled with weak back muscles and a lack of core strength, makes back injuries more likely.
5) Tobacco use — Tobacco use inhibits blood flow, diminishes the body’s capacity to mend, and raises the risk of osteoporosis.

Dr. Hwang says that chronic back pain may be caused by a multitude of underlying illnesses. “From spinal arthritis to sciatica to herniated discs, a spine specialist has the knowledge to identify the source of your persistent back pain and establish a treatment plan that may eliminate the condition or at the very least enhance your quality of life.”

When to see a spine expert for persistent backache

Sometimes back pain comes on suddenly, and the reason is clear. After stretching, relaxing, and taking pain medication, you will remember to bend with your knees the next time.

The majority of the time, however, persons with back pain are unable to recall when the discomfort began or what they did to trigger it. The fact is that the cause of your back discomfort may not always be obvious, making it difficult to choose whether to see a specialist.

According to Dr. Hwang, the following five symptoms suggest it’s time to contact a spine expert for your back pain:

Your ache is intense. While some back pain is low to moderate, severe back pain is characterized by continual, excruciating discomfort that worsens with rest or at night.
Your discomfort is constant. Back discomfort that lasts longer than three months is considered chronic and may need individualized therapy.
Your discomfort is not limited to your back. If your discomfort is radiating down your leg, if you have numbness or weakness in your hips or legs, or if you have tingling in your legs and feet, it may be an indication of spinal compression.
Everyday tasks have become challenging. If your back discomfort is already interfering with daily activities, don’t allow it become so severe that it prevents you from engaging in enjoyable hobbies.
There are more symptoms that are troubling. Infrequently, back discomfort may indicate a severe medical issue, such as a spinal infection or tumor. Inform your doctor if your back discomfort is accompanied by fever, unexplained weight loss, or bowel or urine issues.

A spine expert may evaluate the underlying reason of your back pain using imaging tests such as X-ray, CT, MRI, and myelogram if you exhibit any of these symptoms. A myelogram evaluates the spine using contrast dye injected into the spinal canal and a CT image. Or, he or she may suggest an electromyography (EMG) – a test of your muscles and nerves.

“There are a variety of treatment options for persistent back pain, including drugs, physical therapy, injections, and surgery,” explains Dr. Hwang. “The optimal treatment choice depends on the source and degree of your pain.” We always begin with the least intrusive, most effective therapy, but in certain circumstances, surgery may be required.

Regardless of the cause of your back pain, a spine specialist will be able to build a specific treatment plan to alleviate your lower back pain and enhance your quality of life.

How Long Is an Unacceptable Length of Back Pain?