Many people suffer back pain at some point in their lives, but it can be difficult to figure out when the pain is a symptom of a more serious condition. The spine is a complicated structure that supports the body and protects the spinal cord, which transmits information from the brain to the rest of the body. When something goes wrong with the spine, it can have serious consequences for a person’s health and quality of life.
But how do you know when to start looking for a “spine doctor near me”? If you suffer any of the following problems, a spine doctor can help you feel better.
1. Weakness or Numbness in your arms, hands, legs, or feet.
Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your extremities (arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, and toes) may indicate a problem with your spine in the lumbar region. This is because the nerves that connect these parts of your body to your brain go through the spine and can become compressed as they move from the brain to the arms or legs.
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This could be caused by a herniated (slipped) disc, a bone spur, or stenosis, which is a restriction of space within the spinal canal. Depending on the source, these problems may be resolved with time, but a spine specialist can help identify the underlying cause and provide relief.
2. You notice changes in your fingers and hands.
The upper back and neck vertebrae connect the spinal column to the arms, hands, and fingers. Changes in the area could affect your ability to perform tasks requiring the use of your hands.
These symptoms, like those seen in the lower spine, can be caused by a variety of spinal conditions. In order to identify the root of the issue, a spine specialist can conduct a physical examination and suggest imaging tests like CT, MRI, or X-rays.
3. You are experiencing persistent neck or back aches.
Although not all spinal problems cause pain at the site of injury or damage, some do. Slipped discs can cause pain or discomfort in the area around them. Osteoarthritis, which results from the loss of protective cartilage around the bones, can cause back or neck pain if the vertebrae rub together. Osteoporosis, a condition in which bones grow brittle with age, can produce microscopic fractures in the vertebrae that cause discomfort.
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If you feel back or neck ache after a minor injury, such as slipping on ice, and it does not go away as quickly as you assume it should, this is another reason to go to the primary care doctor.
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Muscle and ligament strains, for example, can cause back and neck pain in addition to the bones of the spine. A spine specialist, such as a physiatrist (a sports medicine doctor who specializes in nonsurgical therapies), can recommend physical therapy and other treatments for these conditions.
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4. You notice a change in your spine’s position or that one shoulder is higher than the other.
Scoliosis is a misalignment of the spinal column. Most people identify scoliosis with spinal screenings they had as kids at school or their pediatrician’s office. Scoliosis is most typically diagnosed in the preteen or adolescent years, but it can also develop later in life due to arthritis or other degenerative back disorders.
Scoliosis is characterized by an S-shaped bend in the vertebrae. It frequently causes misalignment of the shoulders, waist, and hips. It can also cause a hump in the back, either between the shoulder blades or lower down.
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Scoliosis, depending on its severity, can be cured with treatment or surgery. Doctors may simply monitor it to ensure it does not worsen.
5. Post-Trauma
If you have recently sustained a catastrophic injury to your spine, such as a car accident or a fall, seek medical assistance right once. Even if you don’t have any immediate symptoms, you could have suffered an injury that will cause chronic pain or other symptoms in the future.
How to Prevent or Manage Spine Problems
Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining proper posture is vital for avoiding spinal disorders. Sitting or standing in the same position for an extended period of time might place unnecessary pressure on the spine. It’s also crucial to avoid hunching whether sitting or walking. Instead, sit up straight and keep your shoulders back.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also beneficial to spinal health. Excess weight can compress the spine and cause back pain. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is a good strategy to maintain spinal health. Low-impact workouts like walking, swimming, and cycling can assist in strengthening the muscles that support the spine. Yoga and Pilates are other effective ways to improve flexibility and core strength.
It is important to begin slowly and progressively increase the intensity and duration of each workout. Before beginning any workout program, a person should contact with their doctor, especially if they have a history of spinal difficulties.
In addition to exercise, it is critical to take rests when sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Heavy lifting and twisting activities should also be avoided because they might cause undue stress on the spine.