Dealing with back or neck pain can be challenging, especially when it starts to affect your daily activities. While lower back pain may improve with rest or home remedies, there are certain signs that may indicate the need for specialized medical attention. You should see an orthopedic spine surgeon if you experience any of the following symptoms:
What are Chronic Symptoms?
Persistent pain in your back, neck, or spine lasting longer than six weeks could indicate a serious problem. Such chronic discomfort often doesn’t get better with over-the-counter pain medications or physical therapy. Conditions like herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis may cause it. These issues may require a surgical consultation to prevent them from worsening.
Many people ignore lower back pain, attributing it to aging. While that’s understandable, long-term pain shouldn’t be ignored. If your pain continues despite trying non-surgical treatments, it’s wise to seek other options for relief.
Is Pain Affecting Mobility?
When movement becomes complex or certain tasks strain your spine, it’s a sign to pay attention. Restricted movements, like difficulty bending or twisting, may indicate a mechanical problem within the spine. Compressed nerves or spinal misalignment may lead to stiffness and reduced mobility.
Sudden bouts of pain that radiate down the arms or legs often point to nerve involvement. Nerve-related issues severely limit daily functions over time if left untreated. Seeking an orthopedic spine surgeon can help address and potentially reverse these mobility challenges before they escalate.
Have You Experienced Weakness?
Muscle weakness in your arms or legs can sometimes indicate a larger problem with your spine. This weakness might develop gradually, but it can become noticeable when you’re doing everyday tasks like walking or holding objects. Often, this symptom is related to nerve compression in the spine, which disrupts signals sent to your limbs.
Certain conditions can impair muscle function and coordination. Ignoring early signs of weakness could lead to more serious issues, including permanent nerve damage. Getting evaluated early is important, as it allows for treatments that can prevent the problem from getting worse.
Are You Feeling Numb?
Numbness or tingling sensations in the arms, hands, legs, or feet shouldn’t be overlooked. These symptoms frequently indicate pressure on nerves along the spinal column. While these feelings may come and go, recurring episodes signal an underlying spinal issue.
Different areas of numbness provide clues about the affected areas in your spine. For instance, tingling in the legs could point to lumbar spine problems, whereas numbness in the hands often relates to cervical spine issues. Identifying and addressing the root cause promptly helps reduce the risk of long-term nerve damage.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Not all spine-related issues require surgery, but there are instances when surgical intervention offers the best chance at a full recovery. If your symptoms haven’t improved with medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments, an evaluation by an orthopedic spine surgeon might be necessary. Typical conditions requiring surgery include herniated discs, spinal fractures, and severe deformities. Surgery becomes more practical when severe pain, weakness, or numbness interferes with your daily life. An experienced spine surgeon reviews your medical history, conducts diagnostic tests, and discusses safe options for addressing your specific condition.
Treat Lower Back Pain
Your spine plays a key role in movement and overall well-being, which makes addressing lingering issues a priority. Persistent pain, limited mobility, weakness, or numbness are signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Whether you need conservative treatments or advanced solutions, take proactive steps to contact a professional and protect your spinal health.
