Back & Neck Pain

Millions suffer from back and neck pain each year, making it one of the leading causes of doctor visits, lost work days, and chronic discomfort. The harmony of the structure of vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments, and nerves can be disrupted by overuse, injury, or age-related degeneration, leading to pain and suffering. For many, back pain is just an occasional annoyance, but for others, it can mean lost productivity, sleepless nights, and an overall decreased quality of life. Finding the cause is the first step on the road to relief and lasting recovery.

What Causes Neck and Back Pain?

Several factors may contribute to this, and some may act simultaneously. Muscle spasm due to slouching, jerking, sudden movement, or repetitive strain is a frequent culprit. Sitting for extended periods also causes the spine and support muscle groups to work harder. Bulging discs and/or osteoarthritis are also frequent contributors to neck and low back pain, especially in older adults.

In more severe cases, back and neck pain may be caused by a tumor, infection, stenosis, or sciatica. Fracture of the vertebrae might follow a traumatic insult from a fall or an accident.

Symptoms

Although neck and back pain are generally accompanied by aching, stiffness, or stabbing, symptoms depend on the etiology. Numbness, paresthesia, or burning sensations radiating to the arms or legs, indicative of nerve damage, are seen in some patients. Aching and persistent pain that is exacerbated by some motion or relieved by rest is seen in others.

You must be tested right away if your spinal pain occurs before:

    • Sudden weakness in your arms or legs
    • Bladder or bowel loss of control
    • New fall, injury, or trauma
    • Weight loss or fever without an identified cause

Risk Factors You Should Know

Some individuals are more susceptible to developing neck and back pain due to certain risk factors.

  • Age-related degenerative conditions are often due to wear and tear associated with aging.
  • A sedentary lifestyle. 
  • Obesity – extra pounds put increased stress on spinal tissues.
  • Jobs that involve repeated heavy lifting, repetitive motion, or long periods of sitting. 
  • Smoking reduces the amount of blood supply to the spinal tissues and delays the recovery period. 

Finding the Cause

To identify the cause of your pain, a physician will begin with a comprehensive history and physical examination. Your doctor will look for evidence of muscle weakness, nerve damage, or joint misalignment. X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans may be used to identify disc disease, fractures, or degenerative changes. 

In some cases, other studies may be required to diagnose different diseases, such as electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction study (NCS), or laboratory tests. 

Daily Habits That Keep the Spine Healthy

The more strength in the muscles that support your spine, the less likely you are to have flare-ups. Habits that you can incorporate into your everyday life:

  • Stretch daily.
  • Pursue core strengthening exercises.
  • Avoid overhead lifting if suffering from spinal pain.
  • Be at a healthy weight.
  • Avoid staying in the same position for too long.
  • Simple adjustments, like raising your chair height while working, using a standing desk, or opting for a hands-free cell phone, can make a difference.

Back and Neck Pain in Different Age Groups

While age is most commonly associated with back and neck pain, no one is ever too young to experience it. Overuse injury from sports or heavy backpacks can precipitate pain in young adults. Sprains due to acquired wear and tear or degenerative disc disease are the cause in middle-aged persons. Osteoporosis, arthritis, or spinal deformity, such as kyphosis, are the pathologies in elderly patients.

The younger age group is not exempt either. With excessive screen time and poor postures, “tech neck” cases are increasingly being reported in younger age groups. Prevention, achieved by creating early awareness and developing good habits, is the mantra.

Complications and When It Becomes Chronic

Most neck and back pain will recover in weeks. If it lasts more than three months, however, it is considered chronic. Chronic pain will result in restricted mobility, drug addiction, or disability in extreme cases. Chronic pain will most likely impact work, social functioning, and mental health in the long term.

One of the problems with chronic pain is that individuals will become accustomed to it instead of learning to manage it. 

Ready to Feel Better?

At Chester Neurology, we listen and create customized care plans designed to alleviate symptoms and promote ongoing spinal health. From diagnostics to physical therapy instruction or reassurance along the way, we are with you on your road to recovery.

Call us now at (914) 816-1941 or email info@chesterneurology.com to schedule an appointment.

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