Low Back Pain Specialist

What is low back pain?

Low back pain occurs in the section of your spine called the lumbar spine, which includes five vertebrae bones and the structures between and around them. This includes spinal discs, which provide cushioning between vertebrae, and supportive muscles, ligaments, and tendons. 

Your lower back pain could also come from a compressed nerve in the area since all of your peripheral nerves have roots from the spinal cord. 

What are some injuries and conditions that cause low back pain?

Pain in your lower back could come from something as simple as sitting with poor posture for an extended period of time, or it could be a sign of a serious underlying condition that you need to address with professional care. If you experience low back pain for an extended period or if your back pain is more than just a mild ache, it might come from:

• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated disc
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Vertebral fracture
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis and related fractures
• Sciatica
• Scoliosis
• Sprains or strains

These conditions share the common symptom of pain, but some come with other, more distinct symptoms too. For example, sciatica causes pain or tingling to radiate through one of your buttocks and down the back of the corresponding leg. 

When should I get professional care for my low back pain? 

Mild low back pain might go away with a few days of rest, the use of ice or heat, or over-the-counter pain relievers. If it doesn’t, or if other serious symptoms accompany your back pain, you should book a visit to Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine for a comprehensive evaluation. 

Neurologic symptoms like numbness or tingling could indicate a low back issue that needs professional care. Additionally, you should book an appointment right away if you suddenly struggle with controlling your bladder or bowel movements. 

How is low back pain treated?

Treating your low back pain can involve a series of treatments with collaboration between physicians, physical therapists, and even surgeons in some cases. Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine uses non-surgical treatments first and only recommends surgery if your symptoms worsen or do not get better with other approaches.

Fortunately, the majority of low back pain patients experience relief with non-surgical treatments such as:

• Regenerative medicine (stem cells and platelet-rich plasma)
• Epidural steroid injections
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Weight loss
• Physical therapy

Typically, Dr. Hood recommends at least 6-8 consecutive weeks of non-surgical treatments and therapies before considering surgery if there is no relief.  We can refer you to a spine specialist if surgical treatment is needed.

If osteoporosis contributes to your low back pain, Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine offers the leading treatments for this bone-weakening condition.