BACK PAIN: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTS

Back pain is one of the most frequent ailments in the population and one of the main reasons for seeking medical advice. It can appear in different areas: in the neck (cervical pain), in the middle of the back (dorsal pain), or in the lower back (lumbar pain). In addition, in some cases, the pain can radiate to the arms or legs, causing symptoms such as cervicobrachialgia or sciatica.

In our traumatology and sports medicine clinic, We help our patients find the source of their pain and treat it with the best options available, so they can regain their well-being and quality of life.

1. Why does my back hurt?

Neck pain (cervicalgia)

If you experience neck pain that sometimes radiates to your head, shoulders, or upper back, it may be due to one of these causes:

  • Bad posture: Spending a lot of time looking at your mobile phone or computer can overload your neck muscles.
  • Stress and muscle tension: Anxiety and stress can cause muscle contractions in this area.
  • Cervical osteoarthritis: Over time, wear and tear on the neck joints can lead to pain and stiffness.
  • Cervical disc herniation: An intervertebral disc can slip out of position and press on nearby nerves.

How is it diagnosed?

The diagnosis is based on a medical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.

What treatments are available?

  • Exercises to improve posture and strengthen neck muscles.
  • Physiotherapy and therapeutic massages.
  • Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories to relieve pain.
  • In some cases, injections with anti-inflammatories or surgery if the nerve compression is severe.

Mid-back pain (dorsalgia)

Although less common, back pain can also be bothersome. Its main causes include:

  • Inappropriate postures: Sitting for long periods of time or slouching while working.
  • Muscle weakness: Lack of physical activity can cause strain on the spine.
  • Scoliosis: A spinal deviation that can cause pain over the years.
  • Blows or fractures: In older people, osteoporosis can cause vertebral fractures without a major trauma.

How is it treated?

  • Strengthening and stretching exercises.
  • Postural re-education.
  • Pain treatment with medication or physiotherapy.

2. When back pain extends to the arms or legs: Cervicobrachialgia and Sciatica

Some people not only experience back pain, but also discomfort that radiates to their arms or legs. This is because the nerves in the spine may be irritated or compressed.

Neck pain radiating to the arm: Cervicobrachialgia

If, in addition to neck pain, you experience discomfort, tingling, or weakness in your arm, you may be suffering from cervicobrachialgia. This occurs when a nerve in the cervical spine is compressed, usually by:

  • Cervical disc herniation.
  • Osteoarthritis in the spine.
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome (nerve compression in the neck and shoulder).

How is it treated?

  • Medication for pain and inflammation.
  • Physical therapies to relieve pressure on the nerve.
  • In some cases, injections or surgery are necessary if the compression is severe.

Lower back pain radiating down the leg: Sciatica or Cruralgia

If the pain starts in the lower back and goes down the leg to the knee or foot, you probably have sciatica or cruralgia. It is due to irritation or compression of a lumbar nerve.

The most common causes are:

  • Lumbar disc herniation.
  • Lumbar spinal stenosis.
  • Piriformis syndrome (when a muscle in the buttock compresses the sciatic nerve).

How does it manifest itself?

  • Pain that runs down from the back to the leg or foot.
  • Tingling or numbness in the leg.
  • Difficulty walking or maintaining a comfortable posture.

How is it treated?

  • Relative rest and changes in daily postures.
  • Medication and physiotherapy.
  • Injections in the lumbar region if the pain persists.
  • Surgery in cases where nerve compression is severe.

3. We can help you in our office.

If you suffer backachewhether in the neck, dorsal or lumbar area, in our traumatology clinic We can offer you an accurate diagnosis. and the appropriate treatment for your case.

Every patient is different, so we take a personalized approach that may include:

  • Detailed medical evaluation.
  • Imaging tests to identify the problem.
  • Conservative treatments such as physiotherapy and exercise.
  • Advanced options such as injections or minimally invasive surgery if necessary.

Our goal is to help you regain your quality of life and get you moving again without pain.. Book an appointment and let us take care of your back!