Low back pain is one of the main reasons patients visit our facilities in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach. Most people seeking help from our Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton complain about pain in their backs that radiates to the lower parts in the body – buttocks, legs, and feet. The statistics are frightening – according to scientists, the percentage of people who suffer from low back pain at some point in their lives is 60-90%. In most cases, patients experience pain that orthopedic doctors describe as acute (intense, but short-term). However, a large number of patients suffer from chronic low back pain, which requires specific treatment. Since our doctors deal with LBP (Low Back Pain) regularly, we thought it would be a good idea to share 3 things sufferers of this particular condition need to know. Here’s what you should know about LBP:
1. What causes Low Back Pain?
LBP can actually be the result of many conditions, such as spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, lumbar stenosis, compression fractures, sagittal malalignment, and – rarely – infections, tumors, or inflammatory conditions. We can categorize LBP into 2 categories on the basis of the cause:
- Axial Pain – occurs when the muscles, joints, or bones around the spine are affected and cause pain. The pain will typically get worse during certain movements and activities. It can also become more intense after the person spends a lot of time in one position (e.g., driving for a few hours straight). The best possible solution is simply to rest and let the muscles regenerate. This type of pain usually goes away by itself and doesn’t require the attention of an orthopedic specialist.
- Radicular Pain – occurs as a result of inflammation that develops in the nerve root of the spine. It is typically sharp and intense, affecting the lower area of the back and legs. It is very common that the pain only affects one side of the body. In this sort of situation, it’s best to consult a doctor who will determine the cause of pain and prescribe proper treatment.
2. How is LBP diagnosed?
It’s important to diagnose the cause of the pain properly, because it significantly increases the chances of quick recovery. There are many methods to do that, including:
- Palpation, during which the doctor checks for any muscle spasms, tender areas or other abnormalities in the back with his hands
- Neurological exam, during which the doctor examines the patient’s movements and reactions to stimuli (touch, a pin prick, etc.)
- Reflex test
- Leg raise test
- Diagnostic imaging tests (X-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)1
One of the most common diagnostic techniques is an interview, during which the doctor will ask the patient detailed questions about the pain, e.g., ‘Where do you experience it mostly?’, ‘How long have you been experiencing it?’, or ‘Does it get more intense with time or during certain activities?’
3. Orthopedics Palm Beach County – I suffer from LBP – Where can I seek help?
Our facility is known for its exceptional orthopedic doctors. Our spine specialists are all experienced in dealing with this condition and they know exactly what to do to make the patient feel better as soon as possible. We have 2 conveniently located facilities in Palm Beach County where our doctors and professional staff work relentlessly to make sure patients receive the best possible treatment. LBP is a condition that rarely requires surgical treatment; nevertheless, it is possible in some cases. Our orthopedic doctors in Boca Raton have vast experience with spinal surgeries, so they will be able to determine whether your condition requires surgery or not. And if it does, don’t worry – you’re in good hands! In fact, you are in the hands of some of the best orthopedic surgeons in Boca Raton, and Florida in general. We are one of the most advanced orthopedic groups in Florida and nationwide. Our orthopedic surgeons are proudly serving patients with orthopedic injuries in the following Palm Beach County locations: Boynton Beach and Boca Raton. If you’d like to find out more about us, our doctors, and our facilities, or you want to make an appointment, contact us. We look forward to seeing you soon!
