30 Jul Common Back Problems We Help Heal
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints in America. In fact, about 80 percent of adults experience back pain at least once in their lives, and more than 25 percent of people report having back problems in the last three months. This is the most common cause of job-related injuries and contributes greatly to missed days at work.
Perhaps back problems are so prevalent because of their numerous causes. Almost no matter what the reason is for your back pain, the experts at Mile High Spine & Pain Center in Broomfield can help. Here are some specific back problems we treat.
Acute Spinal Injuries
A back sprain, strain, or other trauma can happen suddenly or develop slowly over time due to repetitive movements. Common causes of acute spinal injuries include lifting a heavy object, falling, playing sports, getting in a car accident, and sitting with poor posture day after day.
Osteoarthritis of the Spine
Wear and tear of the disc and facet joints cause pain, inflammation, and instability of the vertebrae. Osteoarthritis of the spine is also called spondylosis or degenerative joint disease. This slow, progressive disease is associated with age.
Osteoporosis of the Spine
This bone disease occurs when the density and strength of your bones progressively decrease. As a result, your bones, including your vertebrae, become quite brittle, making them susceptible to painful fractures. There is currently no cure for osteoporosis, but early detection allows for intervention that may stop the bone loss from progressing.
Scoliosis
This spinal deformity often develops in childhood. Scoliosis may not cause pain until middle age, but early treatment is vital to restore proper spinal alignment before lasting damage is done. Treatments for this back problem may include stretching, traction treatments, massage, and chiropractic adjustments.
Bulging/Herniated Discs
When a disc between your vertebrae becomes compressed, the jelly-like center can break through the tough outer layer. The protruding disc may irritate a nearby nerve root, causing back pain as a result. Bulging and herniated discs may be caused by sudden trauma, prolonged poor posture, repetitive movements, or the wear and tear that comes with aging.
Spinal Stenosis
This back problem describes the narrowing of the spinal column, which puts pressure on the spinal cord. Nerve pain or numbness in the legs may result, though some cases of spinal stenosis go undiagnosed for years because they don’t cause noticeable symptoms. Other back problems, such as scoliosis or herniated discs, may cause spinal stenosis. It may also be hereditary or caused by sudden trauma or injury.
Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Also known as degenerative disc disease, this condition occurs slowly over time as the rubbery discs between your vertebrae lose hydration and wear down. This reduces the discs’ ability to resist forces effectively, which may lead to herniation, collapse, or stenosis.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve travels from your pelvic region down the back of your thigh. The compression of this nerve is known as sciatica. Symptoms of this back problem include burning or stabbing low back pain along with pain, tingling, or numbness down the affected leg. Restricted movement, weakness, and reduced flexibility may also occur.
Radiculopathy
Any condition that compresses, inflames, or injures a spinal nerve can cause pain. These back problems are collectively called radiculopathy. Spinal stenosis and sciatica are two examples, though many other types of radiculopathy can occur.
Spondylolisthesis
This condition, which almost always occurs at the base of the spine, describes when a vertebra slips out of alignment. Sponylolisthesis may cause pain due to spinal instability and nerve compression.
Pregnancy Back Pain
A majority of women experience back problems during pregnancy. This should come as no surprise, considering the weight gain, posture changes, loosening of spinal ligaments, and other changes a woman’s body undergoes when preparing to give birth. While pregnancy back pain is temporary, it can be debilitating. Fortunately, several treatment options are available.
Treat Back Problems at Mile High Spine & Pain Center
Don’t let back pain get you down! When you visit Mile High Spine & Pain Center for treatment, we’ll begin with a free consultation to help you understand why you’re experiencing your symptoms and what it will take to improve them. Our treatment options range from chiropractic care and massage therapy to spinal decompression and steroid shots. We’ll recommend the treatments that are most effective for your injury or ailment.
We would be proud to be part of your healthcare team! To learn more about the back problems we treat, or to schedule your free consultation, please call us at (720) 507-0080 or contact us online today.