Lower back pain can be a sign of a spine-related disorder. Most of the time, people assume that back pain only affects the back. With time, back pain may start leading to discomfort in their legs as well. It indicates that back pain could be a symptom of other problems. If these symptoms describe what you are going through, it would be best to see a doctor for back pain in Houston at Yancey Pain & Spine. Here are some signs that could mean your back pain is a symptom of multiple medical conditions other than the spine.
When is back pain a symptom of spinal stenosis?
Your spinal cord relies on special nerves to communicate messages to your brain to aid in movement. When you have spinal stenosis, your spinal cord nerves become overwhelmed, narrowing the void between them and your spinal cord. The most common symptoms include:
- Lower back pain
- Pain that travels to your legs and feet
- Have trouble when walking due to heavy legs
- Have trouble performing basic tasks that involve your legs
Spinal stenosis can affect any person, regardless of their age group. Still, it is more predominant in people aged 60 years and over. Once your doctor matches your symptoms with physical and other tests, they can enroll you for spinal stenosis treatment.
When is back pain a symptom of other medical issues?
While chronic back pain is the main symptom of spinal stenosis, it could also mean that you have other medical issues. For example, you could be experiencing more severe back pain at night than during the day. If it gets to a point where you experience muscle stiffness in the morning that does not get better even when taking a rest, you could be battling with serious conditions other than back pain.
How Spine Specialists Treat Spinal Stenosis
This condition can affect the lower part of your body if you fail to seek treatment immediately. Your treatment options depend on how severe your spinal stenosis is. Treatment options include:
- Physiotherapy
Spine specialists work with physical therapists to strengthen your back muscles. In the long run, this treatment option puts your nerves at ease.
- Prescribed medications
Your spine specialist might administer medications to relax your muscles and strengthen your nerves.
- Surgery
Surgery is the last option spine specialists may recommend when other treatments have failed. The primary goal of undergoing surgery is to end your back pain misery once and for all. If your doctor chooses this option, find out how you can prepare to enjoy a faster recovery.
Are you ready to see a back pain specialist?
When deciding whether your back pain symbolizes more than one condition, work with your doctor to know your treatment options. The earlier you seek medical help, the higher your chances of preventing future complications from affecting your daily life. For more information regarding back pain and other spinal conditions, schedule an online consultation with a spine specialist at Yancey Pain & Spine today.
