Lower Back Pain

Capital Brain and Spine

Desh Sahni, M.D.

Neurosurgeon & Orthopedic Spine Surgeon located in Austin, TX & San Antonio, TX

Your lower back, also referred to as the lumbar spine, is a common source of pain because it carries most of the weight of your upper body. While lower back pain may resolve on its own, if you’re experiencing pain that lasts longer than a week, Desh Sahni, MD, at Capital Brain & Spine in Austin, Texas, can evaluate your back and provide a diagnosis and treatment plan to help you get relief. Call the office today or schedule a consultation online.

Lower Back Pain Q & A

What is lower back pain?

Lower back pain is any pain you experience in the lower portion of your back, which begins just below your rib cage and ends at your buttocks. An estimated 80% of American adults deal with lower back pain at some point, and it’s the leading cause of work-related disability.

The degree of pain you experience may vary and range from a dull, annoying ache to sharp, stabbing pain. The pain can come and go in a matter of days or linger for months. Lower back pain that lasts longer than three months is considered a chronic pain condition.

What causes lower back pain?

Your lower back pain can develop from a number of sources. It most often occurs due to a mechanical issue related to the muscles, ligaments, tendons, or bones in your back.

Causes of lower back pain include:

Muscle or ligament sprain or strain
Herniated disc
Sciatica
Arthritis
Degenerative disc disease
Radiculopathy
Spinal stenosis
Injury

A deformity in your spine, such as scoliosis, can also lead to lower back pain.

How is lower back pain diagnosed?

Dr. Sahni can diagnose lower back pain after an examination and review of your medical history. To help him formulate his diagnosis, it’s important for you to provide as much detail as possible about the pain you’re experiencing, as well as what you were doing when the pain started.

Dr. Sahni may also recommend diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI, so he can take a better look at your spine, which may help pinpoint the source of your pain.

What treatments can help relieve my low back pain?

Dr. Sahni is a surgical expert, but he might not recommend surgery for the treatment of your lower back pain. Initially, his plan may center on more conservative treatments, such as:

Modification of your activity
Anti-inflammatories and over-the-counter pain relievers
Steroid injections
Physical therapy
Acupuncture
Chiropractic care

If the conservative therapies fail to get you the relief you need, and your lower back pain is caused by a serious musculoskeletal injury or compression of your nerve, Dr. Sahni may recommend surgery. When possible, he uses minimally invasive spinal surgical procedures to reduce your overall risk and help you get back to your usual activities sooner.

For compassionate care for your lower back pain, call Capital Brain & Spine today, or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.