If you suffer with back pain, you are not alone. Back pain is a common problem and is one of the main reasons why people take sick leave from work.
If you are finding that your back pain is interfering with your daily life, it could be time to talk to an experienced orthopedist who will know how to help you right away. An orthopedic physician can provide the appropriate treatment and help get you back to doing the activities you enjoy, pain-free.
When Should I See a Doctor for My Back Pain?
It is advisable to seek a medical evaluation if:
- You have been experiencing pain or discomfort for several weeks without any sign of it subsiding.
- You have a reduced or limited range of motion.
- Normal activities such as walking, standing, or lifting are causing pain or becoming difficult.
Some back symptoms can indicate a more serious health condition and require prompt attention by a doctor. These symptoms can include:
- Pain caused by a serious injury
- Pain that travels down one or both of your legs
- Pain that is waking you up at night or feels worse if you cough or sneeze
- Pain that is accompanied by abdominal pain, changes in bowel or bladder habits, fever, weight loss, swelling, or weakness
What Should I Ask My Doctor About Back Pain?
Your doctor can help to find the cause of your back pain and determine the most suitable treatments to relieve your symptoms. Some useful questions to ask your doctor can include:
- What is causing my back pain?
- How can I prevent my back pain from getting worse?
- Could the pain be caused by a serious condition? If so, what conditions, what are their symptoms, and how can they be diagnosed?
- Are there lifestyle factors that could be contributing to my back pain, such as stress or diet?
- Would I benefit from physical therapy to help with my symptoms/condition?
- Are there any over-the-counter or nonsurgical treatments that are recommended for my symptoms?
- Should I take a prescription medication for my pain? If so, can I take it long-term?
- Are there any alternative therapies that could help my back-pain symptoms?
- Would injection therapy such as trigger-point injections help provide relief?
- What steps can I take at work and home to reduce my back pain and keep my back healthy?
- Would surgery help my condition?
- Could an endocrinologist help with my back pain?
- Will my back pain result in permanent disability?
Treatment for Back Pain in Watertown, NY
If you are suffering with back pain, speak to our experienced physicians here at North Country Orthopaedic Group. Whether you simply need physical therapy or pain-relief injections or if you actually require surgery, we can help. Our spine specialists and therapists treat a broad range of routine and complex spine conditions using the latest treatment methods and surgical techniques.
For more information about the services we provide, or to book a consultation, call us today at (315) 782-1650 or request an appointment now via our online form. We look forward to helping you find relief from your back pain and back to the life you enjoy!
