Neck and Back Pain

An estimated 75 percent of Americans will experience neck and back pain during their lifetime. It is typically a result of an injury or trauma, a disorder such as degenerative disc disease (DDD), a tumor, osteoporosis, or arthritis. Conditions commonly linked to neck and back pain include:

• Back, muscle or ligament strain
• Spinal instability or scoliosis
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis and bone spurs
• Spinal nerve impingement

The root cause of neck and back pain may vary from complications during daily activities, a hereditary or congenital abnormality, or anatomical changes that take place during the natural aging process.

Symptoms of Neck and Back Pain

The duration and intensity of neck and back pain varies. It can be displayed as:

• Constant, sporadic or occur in response to certain positions or activities
• Dull, sharp, piercing or burning
• Localized, or radiating from the neck or back into the arm or hand, or leg and foot

Neck and Back Pain Risk Factors

While anyone can develop neck and back pain, these factors may put you at greater risk:

• Age, starting around 30 or 40 years old
• Lack of exercise
• Excess body weight
• Diseases, such as arthritis and cancer
• Improper lifting
• Psychological conditions, like depression and anxiety
• Smoking

Treatment for Neck and Back Pain

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should consult a physician for an accurate diagnosis. A majority of neck and back pain patients don’t require surgery and find pain relief from conservative methods, such as:

• Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
• Rest and restriction of physical activity
• Injections (corticosteroids) to help reduce the pain and swelling
• Medications and analgesics, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Application of heat and/or ice to help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms

If symptoms don’t improve, your physician may suggest spinal surgery. Minimally invasive spine surgery often offers relief with a lower risk for complications and a potentially faster recovery. Call 330.835.5533 for an appointment with a Summa spine specialist now.

For more information, download the neck and back pain brochure or view this video.