Back pain, or chronic low back pain, is a common condition affecting millions worldwide. It is usually the result of an injury and can be extremely painful. Specialists usually treat back pain San Antonio using non-narcotic medications, exercise, and other treatments. However, there are times when back pain may require the use of prescription medications.
While a specific injury typically causes back pain, it can also be caused by chronic conditions that make it difficult to move and maintain proper posture. These chronic conditions include:
Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease occurs when the cartilage that cushions and protects spinal discs wears away. The result is a space between the spine’s bones, which leads to pain, weakness, and stiffness.
Among the causes of degenerative disc disease include obesity, age, genetics and osteoarthritis. It can also occur after an injury or surgery to the spine.
Fortunately, degenerative disc disease is treatable with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and narcotic pain medications.
Lumbar herniated disk
Lumbar herniated disk (also known as lumbar spinal disk herniation) is a common cause of lower back pain. This condition occurs when a small disk inside the spine pierces through the gel-like covering of cartilage and protrudes into the space between bones. The protruding portion of this disk can press on nerves and cause muscle spasms, which results in pain or numbness in your lower back.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis occurs due to the rubbing against each other of the vertebrae joints when one vertebra slips forward. The most common cause of spondylolisthesis is osteoarthritis, but it can also occur in people who have had their spines fused or have had a bone removed from their spine.
If left untreated, spondylolisthesis can lead to back pain and weakness, which can cause arthritis.
Disc bulge
A disc bulge is a protrusion between two adjacent vertebrae caused by abnormal pressure on a nerve root or nerve root canal. Disc bulges are common in older adults and can cause neck or back pain and neurological symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one vertebra has slipped forward or backward relative to another vertebra. It can cause pain, weakness in the back, and an inability to turn your head or bend at the waist.
Rotator cuff injury
Rotator cuff injury occurs when one or more tendons around your shoulder become inflamed and injured due to overuse or repeated movements. Painful inflammation can occur on both sides of the joint, making it difficult for you to lift objects with your arm correctly.
Back pain is a common symptom of several severe medical conditions that need immediate treatment so that you can get on with your life as quickly as possible. If you are suffering from back pain, you should seek help from physicians and nurse practitioners. Call Castle Hills Family Practice to learn more about back pain, its causes, and possible treatments options.