Maybe it starts as a small nagging ache that doesn’t go away after days or weeks. Maybe it’s a sudden jolt of pain hitting your back like a lightning bolt, leaving you wincing in discomfort. No matter what type of pain, persistent back issues can limit your range of mobility, disrupt your day-to-day activities, and lower your quality of life. This is where a spine surgeon Orlando residents trust can help.
A Spine Surgeon Orlando Trusts Discusses Reasons For Referral
Of course, if you’re scrolling through this article, your doctor has probably already recommended that you should visit a spine specialist. If so, don’t be alarmed – being referred to a spine specialist doesn’t mean you’re looking down the barrel of scary surgeries or shocking health problems. Going to a spine specialist is usually just a step towards being proactive in your care, so that experts can help resolve your pain. A spine specialist can help diagnose and treat the many underlying spine issues that could potentially be causing your discomfort. Some common reasons for referral are listed below:
- Chronic back pain: Any back pain lasting more than three months is defined as chronic. When routine treatments like physical therapy, rest, or OTC medications fail, it’s time to call in a specialist. A back doctor will thoroughly evaluate your condition to pinpoint any underlying causes, such as muscle strain, disc degeneration, or structural abnormalities in the spine.
- Spine injuries: If you’ve injured your spine in a fall or accident (either currently or in the past), you may need to see a specialist. Spine injuries such as torn ligaments or broken bones require special care to avoid long-term issues. Left untreated, such injuries may destabilize your spine and cause ongoing pain.
- Limited range of motion: Back pain can make it difficult to perform simple tasks such as standing up straight, bending over, or twisting your body. When pain limits your mobility, it could mean that discs in your spine are out of place or nerves are being squeezed. A back specialist will utilize physical checks and special tests to determine the problem.
- Nerve-related issues: If back pain comes with tingling, numbness, or a “pins and needles” sensation, there may be a pinched or damaged nerve involved. Sciatica is what occurs when the sciatic nerve is squeezed and radiates pain down the legs. A back specialist will establish the cause of your nerve-related pain and prescribe treatments such as physical therapy, minor procedures, or medicine.
- Structural problems: If there are any problems with the structure of your spine, it can impact your posture and cause pain, resulting in other health issues. Common structural conditions include kyphosis (a hunched back) and scoliosis (a curved spine). Spine specialists have a deep understanding of how the spine works and can offer treatment.
- Symptoms of serious illness: Even though it’s not common, certain kinds of back pain may be a symptom of a serious health condition such as tumors, infections, or diseases which result in inflammation and pain. When left untreated, spine infections like osteomyelitis can lead to life-threatening issues. Spine specialists will be able to test and diagnose the issue so you can receive the appropriate treatment.
Contact Us Today
If back pain is impacting your quality of life, know that you don’t have to live in pain. A spine specialist can help. Call ACME Spine & Orthopedics to schedule an appointment with a top spine surgeon Orlando residents trust.