Back Pain Specialist

Why do I have back pain?

You could have back pain for a great many reasons, from a muscle strain to a serious spinal injury. Houston Neurological Institute treats a variety of conditions that can cause back pain, including:

• Sciatica
• Osteoarthritis
• Herniated discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal stenosis
• Scoliosis
• Spinal tumors

Conditions like these often cause chronic back pain that may become severe and, in some cases, disabling. 

In addition to pain, you might also experience other symptoms, such as numbness, weakness, pins-and-needles sensations, prickling, tingling, or burning. Some patients develop functional issues like incontinence, as well. These problems are due to radiculopathy.

How is radiculopathy linked to back pain?

Radiculopathy results from nerve compression; it’s where something in your spine presses on the nerves exiting your spinal cord. Because the nerves perform different functions, you could experience a range of symptoms, depending on the affected nerves.

Nerve compression in your neck (cervical radiculopathy) results in symptoms that spread down your arms. In your lower back (lumbar radiculopathy), these symptoms affect your legs. Sciatica, for instance, is the primary form of lumbar radiculopathy.

The compression causing your radiculopathy might come from a herniated or bulging intervertebral disc pressing on the nerves, thickened ligaments, bone spurs that develop when you have arthritis, or a tumor that's increasing in size. 

To ensure you receive the best treatment, it's important to get an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

How is the cause of my back pain diagnosed?

The experienced neurologists at Houston Neurological Institute determine the cause of your back pain by combining an in-person consultation with appropriate tests. First, they conduct a physical exam, assess your symptoms, and look over your medical history.  

Next, they order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan. If you might have radiculopathy, they also perform electromyogram (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests to check your nerve function.

When your provider has a diagnosis, they prepare a personalized treatment plan for you. In the meantime, they prescribe symptomatic treatment to keep you comfortable.

What treatments can relieve back pain?

There are numerous potential treatments for back pain. Your provider at Houston Neurological Institute is likely to use conservative approaches first as they often prove to be all many patients need for back pain relief. These approaches could include various physical therapies and medications.

If you aren't getting relief from your back pain and other symptoms, Houston Neurological Institute offers advanced treatments such as:

• Epidural steroid injections
• Facet joint injections
• Sacroiliac joint injections
• Nerve blocks
• Kyphoplasty
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Minimally invasive lumbar decompression
• Intrathecal pain pump implantation

Very few patients require surgery for back pain, but your provider discusses all your options with you as your treatment progresses.

To determine the cause of your back pain and find a solution, call Houston Neurological Institute today or book an appointment online.