UPMC specialist says back pain should not keep you sidelined

Low back pain is common, but it can feel far from routine when it disrupts sleep, work, exercise or everyday tasks. Many cases improve over time with conservative care. If pain lingers, moves into a leg or keeps interfering with daily life, a more detailed evaluation can help identify the likely source and point the way to treatment.

Begin With a Thorough Evaluation

Back pain can come from muscles, joints, discs, nerves or a mix of these structures. A clinician will usually want to know when the pain started, what eases or worsens it, whether it spreads, and how it affects movement and routine activities. A physical exam is also important. In some situations, imaging can be useful, but a scan by itself does not always explain a person’s symptoms.

The aim is not just to attach a diagnosis. It is to understand the pain pattern and build a plan that supports function while addressing the most troublesome parts of the problem. Depending on the person, that plan may involve activity changes, physical therapy, medication, home exercises or other treatments.

When Procedures May Be Helpful

For some patients, an interventional procedure can be one part of a broader treatment approach. Epidural steroid injections may be considered when an irritated spinal nerve is causing pain that travels into the leg. Nerve blocks can help identify or treat a suspected pain source. Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled energy to interrupt selected pain signals and may be appropriate for certain joint-related spinal pain.

These procedures are not a one-size-fits-all answer, and results differ from person to person. Often, the goal is to lower pain enough to move more comfortably, take part in rehabilitation and return to meaningful activities. Any decision should follow a discussion of expected benefits, limitations, risks, alternatives and the patient’s goals.

Know When to Get Prompt Care

Most back pain does not require emergency treatment. However, prompt medical attention is important if pain follows a serious injury or comes with new bowel or bladder problems, numbness in the groin or saddle area, significant or worsening leg weakness, fever, unexplained weight loss or a history that raises concern for infection or cancer.

Living with ongoing pain can be discouraging, especially when it limits the activities that matter most. Effective pain care starts with careful listening and realistic, personal goals. For one person, progress may mean sleeping through the night; for another, it may mean returning to work, walking farther or spending more time with family. A patient-centered plan focuses not only on discomfort, but also on improving quality of life and helping people take part more fully in their communities.

Remington Mark, D.O., is with UPMC Pain Management and sees patients in Lewisburg, Lock Haven and Williamsport. To learn more about UPMC Pain Management Services in Northcentral Pa., visit UPMC.com/PainManagementNCPA.