Back Pain

University Pain and Spine Center
Interventional Pain Management Physician & Minimally Invasive Surgeons located in Somerset, NJ & Monroe Township, NJ
Back pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that affects up to 80% of adults at some time or another. At University Pain and Spine Center, with offices in the Murray Hill neighborhood of New York City and throughout New Jersey, the pain management specialists offer complete care for back pain. Call the nearest office to request a back pain consultation today, or make an appointment online.
Back Pain Q & A
What is back pain?
Back pain is stiffness, aching, or general discomfort that affects any part of your spine. Sometimes, it comes on suddenly and lasts for a few weeks. Other times, it’s because of an underlying health problem.
Some common causes of back pain include:
- Lumbar degenerative disc disease
- Vertebral compression fractures
- Spinal stenosis
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Skeletal irregularities
- Osteoporosis
- Bulging or herniated discs
Repeated movements and chronic heavy lifting may also cause you to experience back pain.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your back pain, your University Pain and Spine Center provider can run diagnostic tests to identify the source and determine the best type of treatment.
Should I see a doctor for back pain?
Back pain often resolves on its own with care at home. However, if your pain is severe or making it difficult for you to work or spend time with friends or family, University Pain and Spine Center can help.
You should visit University Pain and Spine Center if:
- Your back pain occurs alongside weight loss
- You experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in your legs
- The pain extends to your legs past your knees
- You have intense pain that doesn’t improve with rest
Telling your provider about your symptoms helps rule out any other underlying conditions that may occur with back pain.
How is back pain diagnosed?
Your University Pain and Spine Center provider reviews your health charts and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain started, where it occurs, and if it extends into other parts of your body.
They complete an exam, checking your back and neck for redness, swelling, or bruising. Your provider gently presses on your spine to identify sensitive areas and orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, to get a closer look at your vertebrae and vertebral discs.
How is back pain treated?
At University Pain and Spine Center, the pain management experts want nothing more than to help you get your life back. Your provider works with you individually to develop the most effective treatment plan based on the cause and severity of your pain.
Treatments include:
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Kyphoplasty
- Joint injections
- Nerve blocks
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Epidural steroid injections
No single treatment works for every type of back pain. Your provider works closely with you to find the best treatment to relieve your discomfort.
To explore the treatment options for back pain, call the nearest University Pain and Spine Center office today, or make an appointment online.