Back Pain

What is back pain?

Pain that happens in your upper, middle, or lower back, down to your tailbone, is back pain. Back pain falls into two main categories, acute and chronic. 

Acute

Acute back pain starts suddenly, and often after some kind of accident or trauma. This type of back pain generally lasts for less than three months and eventually gets better. Seeking treatment for acute back pain speeds up your recovery time.

Chronic

Chronic back pain goes on for more than three months. This type of back pain may happen suddenly; for example, you may experience acute back pain after an accident, and it could turn into chronic back pain if you don't seek treatment. Chronic back pain can also develop gradually, as in the case of spinal joint degeneration caused by arthritis. 

Both types of back pain require care if they're interfering with your productivity and general wellness. 

How do you diagnose back pain?

Back pain diagnosis is a collaborative process at Joseph R. Raccuglia, MD, Family Medical Practice. When you come in for your back pain evaluation, Dr. Raccuglia asks you a series of questions about the pain location, intensity, and when it tends to occur. Be as detailed as possible, so Dr. Raccuglia can fully understand how back pain affects your life.

You also discuss how and when the back pain began, so he can look for the underlying cause of pain. To determine the exact kind of damage in your back, Dr. Raccuglia may use a variety of diagnostic tests, including X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scans. 

How can I end back pain?

There are many different ways to manage back pain, and Dr. Raccuglia may recommend a combination approach. He personalizes care for each patient very effectively. Your treatment could include:

• Medication
• Ice packs
• Heat packs
• Physical therapy
• Rest
• Weight loss, if you’re overweight

If back pain doesn't respond to conservative care, Dr. Raccuglia may recommend options such as spine injections, which numb the affected part of your spine for up to a few months at a time. 

You can manage back pain with the help of Dr. Raccuglia. To seek treatment for ongoing back pain, call Joseph R. Raccuglia, MD, Family Medical Practice or request an appointment online today.