Elizabeth, NJ

Nearly 31 million Americans suffer from back pain at any given time. When you need top medical care to treat your back, neck, or spine pain, look no further than the experts at New Jersey Spine and Orthopedic. Our offices near Elizabeth, New Jersey provide patients with best-in-class medical treatment from our award-winning neurologists, neurosurgeons, and orthopedic specialists.

For help determining the cause of your injury, take our free online pain assessment. If you already know your condition, discover the treatment options best for you through our Treatment Finder. We also offer free expert reviews on MRI scans.

No matter what your condition, the talented team at NJ Spine and Orthopedic is determined to help you.

Why Does My Back Hurt?

Back pain can result from injury, activity, or a medical condition. It can affect any person, regardless of age, for a variety of different reasons. However, the chances of developing back pain increase as we get older. Here are just a few reasons why your back may be causing you pain:

• Pulled muscles
• Poor posture
• Kidney problems
• Bulging discs
• Herniated or slipped discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sprains or strains
• Arthritis

Other factors can increase back pain, like weight, stress, and inflammatory conditions. Some ways to decrease the possibility of back pain are stretching and exercising.

Can I Treat My Back Pain at Home?

The good news about back pain is that most conditions go away on their own. There are several things you can do at home to help reduce your pain.

• Rest: If your back hurts doing everyday activities, take a break. But try not to let too much time pass before you start moving again. Too much rest can increase your pain or cause it to last longer.
• Medicine: Over the counter medication like Tylenol or Advil can reduce pain and swelling. Be safe with medicine, and read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Heating pad or ice pack: Heat can reduce pain and stiffness, while ice can reduce pain and swelling.
• Practice good posture: A common reason for back pain is slouching or sitting improperly. Be sure to stand or sit up straight.

Even though these are good ways to reduce your back pain at home, it’s essential to see a doctor if your pain persists.

When to See a Doctor about Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common types of pain in the world. If your pain doesn’t improve or becomes worse over time, you may want to consider seeking professional care. Below are just a few signs in knowing when to consult a doctor.

• Fever: Most people don’t worry about a fever and think of it as the flu or a 24-hour bug. But if you have a fever and back pain, it may be a sign of a severe infection.
• Foot drop: Often accompanied by back pain, foot drop is when your foot drags across the floor because it feels too heavy for you to lift it. This symptom is usually a sign of more significant issues like nerve, muscle, or brain problems.
• Numbness or tingling: If you’re experiencing numbness or tingling in your back, it’s often a sign of nerve damage or irritation. If the sensation does not go away, it may be because of a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

If your back pain is persistent, it’s vital to consult a doctor right away.

Consider the Spine Experts at NJSO in Elizabeth, New Jersey

Visit our office near Elizabeth, New Jersey if you’re experiencing discomfort or pain in your back, spine, or neck. The board-certified doctors with NJ Spine and Orthopedic will work with you one-on-one to determine what treatment option is best for you. From non-surgical methods to minimally invasive surgeries, our team of specialists is well versed in pain management.

Call (866) 272-9271 or complete an online contact form today. Let us help you get back to the life you enjoyed before your pain started.