Back Pain Specialist

What causes back pain?

Back pain usually starts with injury or tissue trauma, but it can also occur with wear-and-tear over the years. Some of the most common sources of back pain include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Disc herniation
• Spinal stenosis
• Metastatic spinal cord compression
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica
• Fractures
• Muscle injury (strain)
• Ligament injury (sprain)
• Sacroiliitis
• Scoliosis 
• Kyphosis
• Kyphoscoliosis

You have a higher risk of back pain as you age, starting in your 30s. Additional risk factors include being overweight, poor posture, smoking, and poor lifting techniques. 

What are the treatment options for back pain?

Valdosta Orthopedic Associates offers complete back pain solutions, with all treatments and procedures performed on-site. 

Conservative treatments

In general, treatment begins with conservative techniques that might include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), temporary use of more potent drugs, and strengthening and conditioning with physical therapy. Other conservative options may consist of shockwave therapy and electrical stimulation.

Injections

Steroid injections, such as lumbar and transforaminal epidurals, are a minimally invasive treatment that dramatically reduces inflammation, which minimizes your back pain for anywhere from days to weeks or months.

Surgery

If you need surgery, there’s no need to be fearful. Valdosta Orthopedic Associates follows the Spine Harmony concept that emphasizes cutting-edge minimally invasive technology like the ultrasonic scalpel. 

By taking the Spine Harmony approach, you'll have smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery. There's no time in the hospital, either. Spine Harmony procedures happen in the Valdosta Orthopedic Associates surgery center on-site.

What can I expect after surgery for back pain?

Once you're alert and functional, Valdosta Orthopedic Associates discharges you the same day of your surgery. After back surgery, you'll likely go home with a supportive brace or other stabilizing devices. 

You'll learn special techniques that keep your spine properly aligned as you recover, and you'll typically start physical therapy promptly. You can start walking right away, in most cases. Your surgeon may clear you to drive in about two weeks, but this can vary with the type of back surgery. 

At Valdosta Orthopedic Associates, the team focuses on your long-term comfort and well-being. Whether you need non-surgical or surgical care to return to an active life, the team can help. Book an appointment online or call the office today.