People experiencing back pain often have many questions regarding the causes of their pain, how to diagnose the problem, and how to treat the condition or injury. Below are several common questions and answers.

Lower back pain affects as many as 80 percent of adults at some point during their lifetime.  Anything from improper lifting to aging may cause back pain. Some of the common causes of back pain include:

While back pain is common among adults, if your pain is severe or becomes more frequent, you should talk to your doctor.

Should I see a doctor for my back pain?

Individuals suffering even mild back pain should consult a doctor if they experience:

• Numbness or tingling
• Severe pain that does not improve with rest
• Pain after a fall or an injury
• Pain plus any of these problems:
• Trouble urinating
• Weakness
• Numbness in the legs
• Fever
• Weight loss when not on a diet

What risk factors are associated with back pain?

A number of factors can increase the risk of back pain including:

How is back pain diagnosed?

Most back pain can be conclusively diagnosed using one or more of four diagnostic tests.  These include:

 What is an MRI and what will it diagnose?

Magnetic resonance imaging, or an MRI, gives clear, detailed pictures of soft tissues near bones, the cardiovascular system and other organs.  Specifically for back pain, an MRI allows doctors to look deep inside the body without surgery and can assist in diagnosing herniated discs and nerve damage.

If I am claustrophobic, are there any options besides a closed MRI to diagnose my symptoms?

For those who suffer from claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces) or those who are obese, open MRIs may be an option. This type of MRI allows individuals to feel more comfortable during the procedure.

What is a CT scan?

Computerized tomography, or CT, is an X-ray technique that produces more detailed images of your internal organs than a conventional X-ray can produce. CT scans are used to:

What is a myelogram?

A myelogram is a type of X-ray that uses a dye or contrast material and a special machine called a fluoroscope that takes moving X-rays and displays them on a monitor. Myelograms detect many spinal ailments, including:

What non-surgical treatments are commonly used to treat back pain?

Fortunately, most back problems can be treated effectively without surgery.  Treatment options include:

What types of back injuries or conditions may require surgery?

Some conditions or injuries require surgery. These conditions include:

Surgery may also be recommended for those individuals who have symptoms of nerve damage.  These symptoms include:

What non-invasive/non-surgical procedures are available for back pain or injuries?

Today, interventional radiologists offer a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for spinal fractures. Vertebroplasty (pronounced ver-TEE-bro-plasty) may help reduce or eliminate the pain associated with spinal fractures. This treatment helps stabilize spinal factures caused by osteoporsis.

What can I do to control my back pain?

Incorporating the following guidelines into your daily routine may help minimize back pain and promote a strong and healthy back and spine: