When is it time to see a doctor for
back pain?
We ask our patients several important
questions as a starting place to recommend precise, timely treatment for back
pain.
1. How
long has the pain been there? If the pain has gone on
longer than the typical duration of a strain (several days for most patients),
or if the pain is getting progressively worse, you should consult with your doctor.
2. Is
the pain traveling anywhere else? When neck or back
pain travels to the arms or legs, a pinched nerve might be the culprit. This
type of pain warrants a more detailed conversation and a physical examination
to properly diagnosis and treat the condition.
3. Are
you experiencing other symptoms? Along with the back
pain, are you having a fever, unintentional weight loss, pain at night,
numbness, weakness, loss of balance, or bowel or bladder changes? These symptoms
should not be ignored and warrant an evaluation by a medical professional.
Many patients can obtain back pain relief from
conservative measures. A combination of
lifestyle modifications, exercise, and medications often can help manage the
pain and keep patients active.
If you have recurrent or persistent back pain, or if your pain is accompanied by other
concerning symptoms, consult with your doctor to identify the cause and
appropriately treat the condition.
The UT Southwestern Spine Center uses a team
approach to care for patients with neck or back pain. Our specialists can collaborate
on diagnostic and treatment plans for our patients to deliver optimal patient
care. The spine team includes:
- Physical medicine and
rehabilitation specialists
- Anesthesiology and pain management
specialists
- Neurosurgeons
- Orthopedic spine surgeons
At the Spine Center, we also collect data and outcomes
from our treatments in order to analyze and improve our patient care. The goal
is to provide you with the most cutting-edge back pain treatments and
prevention strategies.
Struggling with
back pain? Call 214-645-BACK (2225) or
request
an appointment online.