Back pain is one of the most common complaints of Americans in the workforce and beyond. Whether it’s from playing sports, lifting weights, excessive yard work, aging, or just sleeping in the wrong position, back pain can happen to anyone. While most cases are acute and only last a few weeks, some cases can linger for months if not treated properly.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), low back pain is the most common cause of job-related disability, and at least 80 percent of Americans will experience low back pain in their lifetime. At the Center for Interventional Pain & Spine (CIPS), our mission is to help those suffering from chronic back pain find the relief they deserve.
Common causes of back pain
Your initial consultation with CIPS will always begin with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the exact cause of your pain. Through years of experience, we have found the most common causes of back pain to be:
Disc Injury
Spinal discs act as shock absorbers, cushioning the spine with movement. Through overuse, injury and age, the spinal discs can wear and oftentimes herniate. Disc herniation can range from mild discomfort to painful, depending on its severity. Some herniated discs can place excessive pressure on surrounding nerves, leading to further complications, such as sciatica.
Strains
Spinal strains are common with overuse, occupational injury and sports injury. The spine contains muscles and ligaments, working together to allow for smooth, pain-free movement. Any tear in these tissues can lead to pain, stiffness and muscle spasms.
Spinal Stenosis
Often caused by aging, spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal column. As it narrows, it places excessive pressure on the spinal nerves, leading to numbness, weakness and pain.
If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, there is a chance it is due to one of the above conditions. However, there are dozens of possible causes of chronic back pain unrelated to those listed. It takes a skilled clinician to accurately diagnose back pain and develop a personalized treatment plan suited to you.
How does CIPS treat back pain?
The caring physicians at CIPS take their time to develop a comprehensive diagnosis of your condition, always beginning with a thorough evaluation and personal history. From there, our multi-specialty team works together to curate a treatment plan with YOU in mind.
Our patients take an active role in their health, being hands-on in the treatment process and having a say in their wellness journey. While all of our physicians are capable of delivering the highest-quality care you expect from CIPS, the following physicians specialize in spinal conditions.
Dr. Venk Sundararajan
“Dr. Venk is the most educated, compassionate, and skilled physician I have met. He is professional yet has a great bedside manner, and he is easy to speak to. He listens to all my concerns and has helped me significantly with multiple epidurals and pain management. Dr. Venk also worked closely with my surgeon after my spinal surgery.” – A.D.
Dr. Melody Hu
“I had been suffering from back pain for the last few years. Dr. Hu has largely eliminated that pain, with a combination of medications and injections. I feel better, I sleep better, and I have so much more energy. Dr. Hu is very kind, and a very good listener. If you are suffering from chronic back pain, go see Dr. Hu, and get your life back.” – J.C.
Dr. Terence Duffy
“I had pain in my left arm and I went to the hospital. They said I had a heart attack, but I came to find out I did not. I made an appointment to come here and was diagnosed with spinal stenosis. Dr. Duffy was actually the one who diagnosed me. My pain has improved 90%. My wife comes here to see Dr. Venk as well. They are two of the nicest doctors around. We are both very happy here.” – T.D.
Dr. Nidhi Agrawal
“This is a wonderful, caring physician. She takes as much time as needed to explain tests, procedures, and results. I’ve sent many of my friends to her. Everyone was impressed.” – G.T.
Contact us
If you or someone you love are dealing with chronic back pain, turn to CIPS for the high-quality care you deserve. Schedule your appointment online to learn more today!
