GENERAL BACK PAIN

BACK PAIN

Back pain remains one of the most common reasons for doctor and emergency room visits in the United States. It is a leading cause of lost workdays and long-term disability. Fortunately, most issues will resolve very quickly without specific treatment. When it persists, it is considered chronic and typically requires medical attention. At Atlantic Spine Specialists, our fellowship-trained, board-certified spine surgeons, Dr. Carl P. Giordano and Dr. Richard S. Nachwalter, specialize in diagnosis and treatment in Morristown, New Jersey. They are dedicated to relief and restoring function to help their patients get the most out of life.

To learn more about diagnosis and treatment, request a consultation at Atlantic Spine Specialists in Morristown, New Jersey. Or call us at (973) 971-3500 to schedule your appointment.

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Back Pain

Q & A

When should I see a doctor for back pain?

While many people experience a sore or stiff back, there are certain symptoms that should be taken more seriously. It’s time to see a doctor if your back pain:

Lasts longer than 3 months
Begins to travel down one or both legs
Is accompanied by weakness in one or both legs
Difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels
Increases when you lay down or at night
Develops suddenly without a known cause

These are just a few of the most common signs of more serious spinal conditions. While it can be helpful for your doctor to hear about how your injury occurred, it is most valuable to thoroughly document your symptoms (such as the location of your pain, weakness, or numbness) and what limitations these symptoms place on your everyday activities. Please take the time to write down this information before your appointment.

How is back pain diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is the key to appropriate and effective treatment for your pain. Dr. Giordano and Dr. Nachwalter are highly experienced in determining the cause of back pain as well as providing both surgical and non-surgical care. During your consultation, your doctor will:

Review your symptoms (such as where you have pain, weakness, and numbness) and what limitations these symptoms place on your everyday activities
Perform a physical exam including an assessment of nerve function, muscle strength, response to sensory input (such as pressure and touch) and check reflexes
Evaluate your medical history
Order diagnostic tests such as x-rays, CT and MRI scans or review the results of scans you have already had

Your doctor will review treatment options once he has diagnosed your condition and determined the cause of your symptoms. He will review the risks and benefits of each option and assist you in deciding which one is best for you.

How is back pain treated?

Whenever possible, Dr. Giordano and Dr. Nachwalter recommend conservative, non-surgical treatment for back pain. After determining the cause of your pain, your doctor may recommend one or a combination of the following treatment options: