OrthoSpine NY

Back Pain

Dr. Victor Katz, M.D F.A.A.O.S
Spine Surgeon
What is Back Pain?

Back pain is a common issue that can affect anyone, from young adults to older individuals. It can range from a mild, dull ache to severe, debilitating discomfort, impacting your ability to perform daily activities. The pain can be localized (confined to one area) or radiate outward to other parts of the body, such as the legs or arms.

Diagnosis of Back Pain
Diagnosing back pain typically involves a comprehensive evaluation to understand its root cause. Here’s how it usually proceeds:

  1. Medical History & Symptoms: The doctor will ask about the onset, location, intensity, and duration of the pain. Questions about lifestyle, recent injuries, or activities that may have triggered the pain are also common.

  2. Physical Examination: The physician assesses the range of motion, muscle strength, reflexes, and areas of tenderness. This helps pinpoint specific sources of pain, such as muscles, ligaments, nerves, or joints.

  3. Imaging Tests:
      • X-rays: Useful to check for bone fractures or misalignments.
      • MRI or CT Scans: Provide detailed images of soft tissues like muscles, nerves, discs, and ligaments to detect herniated discs, nerve compression, or spinal stenosis.
      • Bone Scans or EMG (Electromyography): May be used for more complex cases involving bone issues or nerve damage.

     
Diagnostic Injections: In some cases, doctors may use nerve blocks or injections to locate the pain source.
FAQ
1. What causes back pain? Back pain can result from various factors, including muscle or ligament strains, poor posture, herniated discs, arthritis, or injuries. Other causes include conditions like spinal stenosis, scoliosis, or even stress and tension that cause muscle tightness.

2. When should I see a doctor about my back pain? You should seek medical attention if:
  • The pain is severe and doesn’t improve with rest.
  • It radiates down your leg, causing tingling or numbness.
  • It’s accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fever, or difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels.
  • You’ve recently experienced an injury, fall, or trauma.

3. Can stress cause back pain? Yes, stress can contribute to back pain by causing muscle tension, especially in the shoulders, neck, and lower back. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and proper posture can help alleviate this type of pain.

4. How can I prevent back pain? To prevent back pain:
  • Maintain good posture while sitting, standing, and lifting.
  • Exercise regularly to strengthen your core muscles.
  • Use ergonomic furniture and supportive mattresses.
  • Avoid heavy lifting, or lift with your legs rather than your back.
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your spine.

Personal Care

You will receive individualized care and understand all the stages of your treatment.

Experience & Technology

A less invasive approach, with extensive use of technology, for those who have seen thousands of patients in over 30 years of experience.

Personal Care

You will receive individualized care and an understanding of all the stages of your treatment.

Expertise & Technology

A less invasive approach, with extensive use of technology, for those who have seen thousands of patients in over 30 years of experience.

With OrthoSpine NY, you understand the best path to a pain-free life

You understand the step-by-step journey with us to a pain-free life. After a careful diagnostic analysis, Dr. Victor Katz studies the best course of treatment, always with your best interests in mind. Our mission is to provide you with a pain-free life so that you can do what you love best with the ones you love.

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