Neck and Back Pain
An estimated 75 percent of Americans will experience neck and back pain during their lifetime. It is typically a result of an injury or trauma, a disorder such as degenerative disc disease (DDD), a tumor, osteoporosis, or arthritis. Conditions commonly linked to neck and back pain include:
- Back, muscle or ligament strain
- Spinal instability or scoliosis
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis and bone spurs
- Spinal nerve impingement
The root cause of neck and back pain may vary from complications during daily activities, a hereditary or congenital abnormality, or anatomical changes that take place during the natural aging process.
Symptoms of Neck and Back Pain
The duration and intensity of neck and back pain varies. It can be displayed as:
- Constant, sporadic or occur in response to certain positions or activities
- Dull, sharp, piercing or burning
- Localized, or radiating from the neck or back into the arm or hand, or leg and foot
Neck and Back Pain Risk Factors
While anyone can develop neck and back pain, these factors may put you at greater risk:
- Age, starting around 30 or 40 years old
- Lack of exercise
- Excess body weight
- Diseases, such as arthritis and cancer
- Improper lifting
- Psychological conditions, like depression and anxiety
- Smoking
Treatment for Neck and Back Pain
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should consult a physician for an accurate diagnosis. A majority of neck and back pain patients don’t require surgery and find pain relief from conservative methods, such as:
- Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
- Rest and restriction of physical activity
- Injections (corticosteroids) to help reduce the pain and swelling
- Medications and analgesics, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Application of heat and/or ice to help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms
If symptoms don’t improve, your physician may suggest spinal surgery. Minimally invasive spine surgery often offers relief with a lower risk for complications and a potentially faster recovery. Call 234.867.7965 for an appointment with a Summa spine specialist now.
Neck and Back Pain Resources
Is Working from Home a Pain in the Neck – Literally?
As remote work becomes more common, poor home office ergonomics can contribute to neck and back pain. Summa Health offers five simple tips to help prevent discomfort and support long-term health.
Managing and Treating Back and Neck Pain [Podcast]
Dr. Borsellino, a neurosurgeon with Summa Health, explains common causes of neck and back pain, as well as available surgical and nonsurgical treatments.
A Green Thumb Doesn't Have to Mean a Sore Back
Summa Health offers 6 tips to help you continue enjoying your passion for gardening while keeping your back healthy and pain-free.
Neck and Back Pain Overview
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