Back, Neck, and Spine Care

How Long Should You Wait to See a Doctor About Back Pain? How Do I Know If My Neck Pain Is Serious?

If your back or neck pain has lasted longer than three to five days or is severe, you should see a physician. Back pain is classified as either acute, subacute, or chronic. Acute back pain lasts less than a month, subacute lasts over a month but less than three months, and chronic pain lasts over three months.An IBJI spine care specialist can diagnose conditions and injuries of the neck, back, and spine.

What Can Cause Spine Pain Without an Injury?

While there are many potential causes of back pain, they often have no obvious cause, such as an injury.Some of the most common causes of back pain without injury are:Muscle spasmsOsteoporosis or small compression fracturesArthritis causing the canal around the spinal cord to narrowBulging or herniated discsConstipationStress and depression

What Are the Signs You Might Have Arthritis in Your Back? What Does Back Arthritis Feel Like?

Conditions like osteoarthritis of the spine cause a breakdown in the facet joints and/or discs, where the vertebrae join and eventually cause the formation of bony growths called spurs. These spurs can press on your nerves, causing pain.Most arthritis back pain occurs in the lower back. You may also experience swelling and stiffness in your back if arthritis is the cause.

How Does Weight Affect the Health of Your Spine?

Carrying excess body weight can cause damage or injury to your spine. This damage can lead to osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, compression fractures, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and many other spinal conditions. Unfortunately, back pain is a symptom all these conditions have in common.