Chronic pain is a complex and widespread problem. According to the National Institutes of Health, it affects an estimated 100 million American adults. One common type of chronic pain is lower back pain. In this blog post, we’ll explore some potential causes of lower back pain. We’ll also provide some tips on finding relief from this condition.
Degenerative disc disease
As we age, our discs degenerate and are less able to cushion the spine
As we age, degenerative disc disease (DDD) becomes increasingly common in our spine. Over the years, the discs between each vertebra become thinner and weaker, unable to provide the same cushioning they once did. DDD can cause various issues, such as chronic pain and decreased flexibility, so many doctors recommend lifestyle changes to minimize discomfort.
Exercise is a great way to stay physically active while also helping strengthen your core muscles, which may help mitigate chronic pain from DDD.
Additionally, avoiding certain activities that strain the spine, such as heavy lifting or excessive sitting, is important for making sure the process of degeneration does not accelerate. While there may be no cure for DDD, certain preventive steps can make a living with the condition easier.
Herniated disc
A herniated disc can put pressure on nerves and cause pain
A herniated disc, or a slipped disc, is an injury to the spine that happens when disc ruptures or tears.
As a result of the tear in the outer layer of the disc, some of its fluid can push into the surrounding area, causing pressure on nearby nerves.
This change can be extremely painful and uncomfortable and, if left untreated, can lead to chronic pain and other serious health problems.
Treatments for a herniated disc vary depending on the individual’s condition and range from physical therapy to surgical options.
Taking proactive steps such as stretching regularly, eating well, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are good preventative measures to keep your discs healthy.
Spinal stenosis
This is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can compress nerves and lead to pain
Spinal stenosis is a condition that affects many people, characterized by a narrowing of the spinal canal.
This narrowing can compress nerves and cause serious pain throughout the body. This pain may manifest in the neck, back, arms, legs, or feet, depending on where it is located. People with this condition can also experience other associated symptoms, such as difficulty standing for long periods, numbness and tingling in the extremities, and weakened muscles.
Diagnosis of spinal stenosis often involves observation of medical history, physical examination, imaging (such as X-rays or MRIs), and possibly nerve conduction studies.
Treatment depends on what type of stenosis is present but could include medications to reduce inflammation, edema, or surgery, depending on the severity.
Osteoarthritis
this is the wear-and-tear arthritis that can affect any joints in the body, including those in the spine
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis, with an estimated 26 million Americans suffering from it. It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion due to cartilage breakdown or joint damage.
Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including those in the spine. While often seen in older adults, it can also affect younger people who are more active or have experienced a sudden joint injury.
Treatment for osteoarthritis typically involves lifestyle changes such as reducing stress on the affected area, eating healthy diets and maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and practicing good posture.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed for symptom relief. If medical treatment does not help, surgery may be recommended to replace the damaged joint.
Fibromyalgia
This is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and fatigue
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system, resulting in widespread pain and fatigue among sufferers.
The cause of the condition remains unknown; however it is believed to be connected to the central nervous system and how it processes discomfort signals.
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing this complex condition as symptoms vary between individuals.
Some treatments aim to improve overall lifestyle and manage sleep patterns, stress levels, physical activity/exercise, diet and emotional/psychological well-being whilst medication could be used for more intense pain relief if needed.
Fibromyalgia has a significant impact on quality of life yet it can be managed and treated with an effective rehabilitation program tailored according to individual needs.
Myofascial pain syndrome
This is a chronic condition that causes trigger points in muscles to become painful
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic and often misunderstood condition characterized by the presence of trigger points in muscles that become painful.
It is believed that this condition can be caused by trauma or physical stress, poor posture, inflammation, and medical conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Lyme Disease.
Symptoms of MPS may include localized pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, depression/anxiety, and deficiencies in a range of motion or strength.
Treatment plans can depend on multiple factors related to an individual’s condition; however, often recommended treatments such as medications to reduce inflammation and relax the muscle, stretching exercises physio-therapies are found beneficial. Research is ongoing to find new ways to diagnose or treat Myofascial Pain Syndrome.
Get Help for Chronic Low Back Pain in Phoenix, AZ
These are just a few conditions that can lead to chronic back pain. At Canyon Pain Center, our goal is to help you gain control over your chronic low back pain. We provide comprehensive care to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life.
Our team includes specialists in pain management, chiropractic, and family medicine.
Our individualized treatment plans are tailored to meet your specific needs. We use a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications to help you manage your pain.
We may also recommend invasive procedures, such as nerve blocks and injections, to reduce pain.
At Canyon Pain Center, we understand the impact chronic low back pain can have on your life. We strive to provide compassionate, personalized care to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.
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