Back Pain

Back pain interferes with work, everyday tasks, and your overall quality of life. If you have persistent or chronic back pain, seek treatment from experienced neurosurgeon David A. Wiles, MD, at his office in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He offers non-invasive and surgical solutions for back pain. Call the office or book an appointment online today to find out more about his treatment options.

What causes back pain?

Back pain can result from trauma, structural issues, or genetics. You may feel pain from an injury to the ligaments, muscles, nerves, or spine. 

Many causes of pain occur because of:

• Overuse
• Strain
• Sports injuries
• Illnesses
• Disc herniations
• Structural problems like scoliosis
• Osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and other forms of degeneration
• Compression fractures
• Car accidents

Lifting while twisting is a common cause of back strain and pain. Mild pain that results from a strain usually resolves on its own in a few days, but severe pain requires medical care. It’s also important to seek professional care if you experience numbness or tingling. 

If you don’t get proper care for the initial signs of pain and injury, it can lead to long-term back pain later in life.

What are some nonsurgical treatments for back pain?

Dr. Wiles recommends nonsurgical treatments as the first line of treatment in helping to resolve back pain. These treatments include:

• Pain and anti-inflammatory medication
• Muscle relaxants
• Rest and gentle exercises
• Physical therapy
• Massage

These interventions are usually most effective when you have minor back pain due to a strain or sprain. 

Dr. Wiles may also suggest injections to reduce inflammation that’s intensifying your pain. These include epidural corticosteroid injections, facet joint injections, and sacroiliac joint injections. 

Nonsurgical treatments can ease symptoms of structural issues or degeneration, but they aren’t a cure and won’t prevent the long-term progression of pain and dysfunction. 

When should I consider surgery to resolve back pain?

Dr. Wiles suggests surgery when nonsurgical treatments no longer effectively help your back pain. Surgery is usually necessary when you have a degenerative condition like narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis) or a herniated disc.

The type of surgery you need depends on the cause of your back pain. Dr. Wiles uses minimally invasive surgery whenever possible to make recovery easier. With minimally invasive surgery, you have less blood loss, a faster return to function, and reduced scarring. 

If you have back pain preventing you from doing the things you love and daily activities, reach out to the office of David A. Wiles, MD, by calling or booking an appointment online today.