Back pain can stem from a variety of causes including misalignments, disease, and trauma. The back serves as the foundation for the body, protecting it from damage while also aiding in movement. Pain in the back can originate from ligaments, bones, and muscles, and may be the result of bad habits, a sports injury, or even a car accident. In some cases, poor health, digestion issues, or arthritis may also cause a back injury. Given the multitude of potential causes, expertise is crucial in effectively treating back pain.
At Injury Medicine in Easley, our chiropractic team has the experience and knowledge needed to address a range of back issues. We offer state-of-the-art equipment, specialized skills, and a team of professionals to accurately diagnose your back problem, identify the underlying cause of your pain, and provide effective solutions to help you live a pain-free life. Call us at 864-866-PAIN to learn more about our services and how we can help with your back pain.
Symptoms of Back Injury
Back pain can manifest in various ways, from a mild muscle ache to a severe stabbing or burning sensation. It may also radiate down to the leg or worsen when you bend, twist, stand, or walk. Usually, self-care and home treatments can improve back pain within a few weeks, but medical attention is necessary if the following symptoms occur:
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or time
- Unexplained weight loss accompanied by back pain
- Lingering pain for more than a few weeks
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
- Pain that spreads down both legs or below the knees
- Back pain accompanied by bladder or bowel problems or fever, especially if caused by an injury or a fall.
- If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek immediate medical care as it may indicate a serious underlying medical condition.
Types of Back Injuries
Back injuries are typically classified based on the location of the affected area, the cause of the injury, and the type of pain experienced. Soft tissue injuries impact the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the back and can cause limited mobility and stiffness. Bulging disc injuries can gradually affect spinal cord function by causing pressure to be placed on the weakest point of the spinal disc, resulting in severe pain. Nerve damage can also cause nerve pain that radiates outward and down towards the leg due to pressure from bone fragments, herniated discs, and other issues. Herniated discs generally occur in the lower back and can worsen with excessive strain or spinal degeneration, resulting in severe pain and damage. Spinal fractures, caused by falls or impacts, can lead to small bone fragments that can displace discs or pinch spinal nerves, causing discomfort. It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately for spinal fractures to prevent potential damage to the spinal cord and paralysis.
How Will Your Doctor Diagnose Your Back Injury?
At Injury Medicine, back injuries are diagnosed by utilizing various techniques and imaging tests. The diagnostic process typically includes a physical examination, X-ray, MRI, and CAT scan. During the physical exam, your physician will evaluate the cause of the problem and assess the overall condition and strength of your spine, muscles, and back.Â
X-rays are commonly used to observe the positioning of spinal discs and bones surrounding the affected areas.Â
MRI tests are used to examine the condition of the soft tissue in your back, which allows your doctor to understand the extent of your injury and create a treatment plan. Additionally,.
a CAT scan may be recommended to provide a clearer picture of the condition of your spine, aiding your physician in diagnosing the effects of a bulge, herniated disc, or bone fragments.
Types of Treatment
The treatment plan for your back injury will depend on your specific diagnosis. Common treatments for back injuries include:
Laser Therapy: This treatment is used to remove tissues that are causing unwanted pressure on your back, such as from a bulging or herniated disc pressing on a nerve or spinal column.
Hot/Cold Therapy: This option can provide relief and speed up recovery. Cold therapy helps numb intense or sharp back pain by constricting muscle and blood vessels, while heat therapy improves muscle flexibility and mobility of your muscles, discs, and joints.
Exercise: Exercise is used to reduce stiffness in skeletal structures, muscles, and ligaments.
Ultrasound Therapy: This treatment can improve the condition of soft tissue in your back, promote healing, and relieve pain.
Chiropractic Care: Our chiropractic practitioners in Easley can address back pain caused by spinal misalignment.
Contact Injury Medicine for Your Back Injury Treatment in Easley, South Carolina
Ignoring a small discomfort from a back injury may result in a more severe issue. If you are experiencing recurring or intense back pain, it is important to seek medical attention. Prompt treatment is essential for maintaining your overall health and functionality. Contact our Easley back injury treatment center at 864-866-PAIN to speak with a specialist and receive the help you need. Don’t delay your care; call Injury Medicine today at 864-866-PAIN.
