Did you know that in 2020, 28% of men and 31% of women had lower back pain at some point?
We all know how it feels; the ache in the lower back after moving heavy items or sitting in an awkward position.
However, if you suffer from chronic back pain, you will know that it can be much worse than this. How can you know whether it is time to see a spine specialist? What can they do to help?
Why not read on to find out the answers to these important questions.
1. It Is Affecting the Quality of Your Life
lIf your back pain is not a temporary injury but is impacting your everyday life over a long period of time, then it is time to see a specialist.
Spine injuries are complex and can affect the human body in many ways. Often only a spine doctor can fully diagnose what your symptoms indicate and how to treat them.
If you find that climbing stairs is painful, driving a car is uncomfortable, or even walking is difficult then it is time to call a professional.
4 Signs You Need a Back Surgery
2. You Have Radiating Pain
Your spine is a complex mix of bone, tissue, and nerves. This can cause back pain to present in unexpected ways including radiating pain or pain to the extremities.
Even if you have not suffered a serious spine injury, lifestyle or posture could cause sciatic nerve pain to occur.
If you see that your pain is spreading away from your back to other regions of your body, it is time to get a specialist’s opinion.
3. Physical Therapy Has Not Helped
Physical therapy can help you to address many underlying muscle issues. Over time they can teach you better posture and how to build muscle groups that will support your back and skeleton in a better way.
However, if even this is not getting to the root cause of your back pain, it may be time to call a professional and have a spine exam.
4. Continual Pain
When your body suffers an injury, it will respond with pain and possibly bruising and swelling. With treatment, this should disappear or be greatly reduced.
If weeks and months pass by without a resolution to your problem, you may need to see a professional, such as a spine physician, to get a specialist opinion.
It Could Be Time to See a Spine Specialist
If you are suffering or have a history of suffering from back pain you know how debilitating it can be. It affects not only your movements but also your entire lifestyle.
While pain management can help, it is important that you seek help from a professional spine specialist. They can set you on the road to recovery.
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