Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons patients are referred to us, whether from a primary care physician, an orthopedic surgeon, or a neurosurgeon.
Lower back pain can stem from muscle strain, disc problems, facet joint irritation, or nerve involvement. Common symptoms include dull ache or sharp pain, stiffness, and pain that worsens with sitting or standing for long periods.
Neck pain can result from muscle strain, disc issues, or joint irritation in the cervical spine, often with pain radiating into the shoulder or arm.
Pain can originate from the spinal discs, facet joints, or nerve roots, often producing pain that radiates into the arm, hip, or leg, with numbness or tingling.
A spinal disc has a tough outer layer surrounding a softer center. When that center pushes through a tear in the outer layer, it's called a herniated disc, and it can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates along the affected nerve's path.
As spinal discs lose hydration and height with age or wear, they can no longer cushion the spine as effectively. This gradual breakdown can lead to chronic back or neck pain, and may contribute to other conditions like spinal stenosis or facet joint irritation.
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It often develops gradually and may cause pain, numbness, or weakness, particularly in the legs, that worsens with standing or walking.
Spondylosis refers to age-related wear affecting the spinal discs and joints. It's common as people get older and can contribute to stiffness and pain, though not everyone with spondylosis on imaging experiences symptoms.
The facet joints connect each vertebra to the ones above and below it, allowing the spine to bend and twist. When these joints become worn or inflamed, they can be a direct source of localized back or neck pain that often worsens with certain movements.
A compression fracture occurs when a vertebra weakens and partially collapses, which can happen due to osteoporosis, trauma, or other conditions affecting bone strength. This can cause sudden, sharp back pain and, in some cases, a noticeable change in posture.
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forth motion, commonly associated with sudden impact. It can strain the muscles and ligaments of the neck beyond their normal range, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
If you've been referred by an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon, or surgery is being discussed, we can provide interventional treatment as part of a conservative-first approach, and coordinate directly with your surgical team.
Whether you're managing chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or exploring regenerative treatment options, our team is here to help.
