Issue 22.17
National statistics show that about 80 percent of people will experience neck or back pain during their lifetime. Spine pain is one of the most common reasons that people seek medical attention, but many “just deal with it” on a daily basis. At Desert Pain Specialists, there are a number of options that can be discussed to help treat neck and back issues, even if the cause is related to the aging process. In addition, getting early treatment for your pain and spine issues often allows for improved daily function and independence.
There are a number of causes of back pain, some due to medications (even commonly prescribed medications), the aging process, physical stress, other medical problems, and injury. Most people have heard of “slipped discs,” but typical arthritis can also cause severe problems over time, also known as Degenerative Disc Disease, Facet Arthropathy, Spondylosis, Listhesis, or types of Stenosis. Another cause of back pain includes fractures.
As we age or lose minerals from bones from other causes, our bones begin to lose density and become more fragile. Even a simple position change can sometimes result in compression fractures of the spine, often causing sudden severe back pain. The pain is most commonly felt in the middle or lower spine. or on the sides or in the front of the spine. Generally, the pain is sharp and ” knife-like,” can be disabling, and may take weeks to months to go away. Compression fractures due to osteoporosis (thinning bones) may cause no symptoms at first. Often, they are discovered when x-rays of the spine are done for other reasons. You may noticed:
* Back pain that starts slowly, which gets worse with walking, but is not felt when resting
* Loss of height, as much as 6 inches over time
* Stooped-over posture, or kyphosis, also called a dowager’s hump
Back pain should be evaluated if you are 70 years or older with new back pain; have pain that does not go away, even at night or when lying down; you have weakness in one or both legs or problems with bladder, bowel, or sexual function; have back pain accompanied by unexplained fever or weight loss; have a history of cancer, a weakened immune system, osteoporosis, or have used corticosteroids (prednisone) for a prolonged period of time; had a fall or accident causing back pain, especially if you are older than 50 years; pain spreads into the lower leg, particularly if accompanied by weakness of the leg; back pain does not improve within four weeks.
Medicines to treat osteoporosis can help prevent future fractures. However, medicines cannot reverse damage that has already occurred. Physical therapy and a regular exercise or a walking program can also slow rapid bone loss. Check with your provider about their recommendations. In the meantime, our office offers treatment options including pain control, epidural injections, or vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, procedures that help repair the bone.
If you experience chronic pain or spine issues, our office can help you get back on your feet. Please call Desert Pain Specialists @ (435)216-7000 to schedule a visit with us.