We often use back pain to describe any sort of aches and discomfort in our lower back and spine. However, there are different types and causes of each case 0f back pain. Spine Center of Texas has listed these differences to help you determine the right kind of treatment to relieve your back pain.
Types of back pain
- Acute back pain – This is a short-term pain that lasts less than six months. Acute pain is an immediate, but intense pain that is immediately followed by an aching sensation. It usually results from an injury or tissue damage. If left untreated, acute pain can become chronic (long term) due to lack of exercise, as well as emotional triggers like anxiety and depression. Spine conditions such as osteoporosis, compression fractures, muscle spasms, tumors, herniated discs, sciatica, and scoliosis can result in acute back pain.
- Chronic back pain – When back pain is persistent and lasts for several months or years, this is considered chronic. This type of back pain can be caused by a recent injury, but it may have an unidentifiable source. Degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis are common causes of chronic back pain. An orthopedic surgeon may recommend minimally invasive spine surgery to help treat chronic pain if conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy are not working.
- Neuropathic back pain – Neuropathic back pain occurs when there is no sign of injury or tissue damage, but the nerves continue to send pain signals. It can be chronic and unresponsive to typical medications, such as anti-inflammatories and morphine. Those with peripheral nerves problem (a common symptom of diabetes), or brain or spinal injuries, may suffer from neuropathic back pain. This type of back pain has been described as severe, sharp, stabbing, and burning. Neurophatic back pain is usually treated with nerve block injections.
Contact Spine Center of Texas to learn more about how you can manage back pain. We can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for your back problems.
