Submitted by Illinois Neurological Institute
Did you know that back pain is the second most common reason for visits to primary care doctors? According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 75-85 percent of Americans can expect to suffer from back pain in their lifetimes. Many suffers will get better with little or no medical treatment. Unfortunately, some patients do not get better on their own and their pain becomes worse. That is why it is important for you to seek early advice from a spine expert.
There is no miracle cure for back pain, and many people avoid seeking treatment thinking it will go away on its own or from fear of surgery. But that is not always the case. While surgery may be an option for some spinal conditions, non-surgical treatment can often provide relief from acute back and neck pain.
When seeking treatment for back pain, there are many options available and it can be difficult to know who you can trust. “Only about 10 percent of the patients we see are right for surgical treatment,” said Daniel Fassett, MD, a neurosurgeon and head of the Illinois Neurological Institute Spine Institute. “That’s why we know that we need to take a well-rounded, medical approach to back pain – not just surgical. We need to provide relief to those patients who were not right for surgery.”
There are experts specially trained to evaluate your back and neck pain. Research shows that early initiation of treatment and physical therapy speeds up the recovery process, resulting in a faster return to normal activity. When you visit the INI’s Early Evaluation Clinic, you will be seen by both a provider and physical therapist specializing in spine care. In many cases, appointments are available the same or next day, saving you a visit to an emergency department or urgent care center. Through the unique integration of non-surgical and surgical specialists, you have the opportunity to receive a treatment plan that is right for you.
What can you do to help relieve back pain?
- Most people with back pain get better with time. Rest, physical therapy, weight loss, smoking cessation, and some medications are all proven to help.
- Consult with a spine specialist early about treatment options such as rehabilitation or exercise therapy. Specific exercises can help different types of pain.
- Give your body a chance to heal. Take over-the-counter pain medication to ease swelling. Apply cold packs and ice to reduce pain and swelling during the first 48 hours. After that, try a heating pad or hot showers to relax muscles and increase blood flow.
- Avoid the use of narcotics for pain relief
- Seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms include numb or weak legs, trouble urinating, fever or unplanned weight loss.
- Don’t expect an X-ray, MRI or CT scan right away unless the doctor suspects a more serious problem.
- Return to normal activity as quickly as possible.
- Before surgery, learn about the risks and what would happen without an operation. Seek a second opinion. Discuss options with your physician.
- Research your condition and treatment options online and be prepared to ask your doctor any questions you may have.
The INI Spine Institute’s Early Evaluation Back and Neck Pain Clinic are specially trained to evaluate your back and neck pain. For an appointment or to consult with a spine specialist, call 877-464-6670 or visit www.ini.org.
Photo courtesy of INI Spine Institute