Back Pain

Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability, not only in the United States but worldwide. This common condition leads to millions of dollars in hospital bills and lost productivity every year. At Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Francis Pecoraro, MD, DAPMR, SAAPMR, is well-versed in identifying sources of and treating back pain. Take the first step toward a reduction in pain and improved quality of life by making an appointment. Call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is back pain?

Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems. Almost everyone will experience back pain at some point during their lifetime. 

Your spine features a complex network of bones, tendons, nerves, muscles, and ligaments. When these components work in harmony, they help you lift, bend, and perform the various activities of daily living. 

However, if you injure yourself or develop a condition like arthritis, you may experience back pain that’s debilitating. 

Back pain affects everyone differently and depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes, it’s sharp and stabbing; other times, it’s dull and throbbing. 

No matter the type of back pain you’re experiencing, if it doesn’t subside with conservative treatments, contact Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC to discuss pain relief options. 

What are some common causes of back pain?

Acute back pain, or back pain that lasts for less than six weeks, is usually the result of a fall, poor posture, an automobile accident, or a sports-related injury. 

Back pain that is chronic, or that lasts for longer than three months, is usually the result of a more serious condition, such as age-related deterioration or an underlying disease. 

Some common ailments that cause back pain include:

• Sprains
• Strains
• Arthritis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated discs
• Osteoporosis
• Spinal stenosis

You might also experience back pain as the result of a skeletal irregularity, such as scoliosis or kyphosis––two deformities that affect the curvature of your spine. 

Is there any way to prevent back pain?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent back pain entirely. However, there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk. 

Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC recommends practicing good posture, lifting with your legs, and maintaining a healthy weight. You can also lower your risk of back pain by exercising regularly. 

How is back pain diagnosed?

To diagnose back pain, Dr. Pecoraro asks you a series of questions about your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and completes a physical examination, consisting of various maneuvers to localize the pain sources.

If these steps don’t provide adequate insights, he might also order additional testing, such as a series of X-rays, an MRI, or a nerve conduction test. 

How is back pain treated?

At Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, Dr. Pecoraro regularly treats back pain using conservative methods of care. If you have mild back pain, they might recommend light exercise, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, or prescription-strength non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). 

If these measures of care don’t provide relief, or the pain you experience is more advanced, they might recommend: 

• Facet injections 
• Epidural injections 
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal cord stimulation

If back pain has you avoiding activities you enjoy, don’t hesitate to seek treatment. Request your appointment at Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.