Treating Acute Back Pain with Orthopedic Urgent Care

Acute back pain can strike suddenly and make daily activities feel impossible. Whether it’s a sharp pain in the lower back or a dull ache that won’t go away, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for relief and recovery.

Our Orthopedic Urgent Care facilities in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio, are ready to give you the assistance you need. Contact our experts at Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine today to book a consultation!

What is Acute Back Pain?

Acute back pain refers to pain that comes on suddenly and lasts for a few days to a few weeks. It differs from chronic back pain, which persists for longer than three months. Acute back pain can be debilitating but often resolves with appropriate care and rest.

Where Can Acute Back Pain Occur?

Acute back pain can occur in various parts of the back, including:

Lower back: The most common area affected, often involving the lumbar spine.
Mid-back: You may feel pain here due to issues with the thoracic spine.
Upper back: Less common but can result from neck and shoulder issues.

Common Causes of Acute Back Pain

Several factors can lead to acute back pain, including:

Sudden injury: Trauma from accidents or falls. This may include a fracture of a spine bone.
Muscle spasms: Tightening of back muscles due to overuse or strain.
Mechanical or structural problems: Issues with the spine, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
Poor posture: Long-term bad posture can lead to acute episodes of pain.
Lifting heavy objects: Improper lifting techniques can strain the back.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition called spinal stenosis.
Osteoporosis: The spine’s vertebrae can develop painful breaks if the bones become porous and brittle.
Ankylosing spondylitis (axial spondyloarthritis): This inflammatory disease can cause some of the bones in the spine to fuse. This makes the spine less flexible.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Back Pain

Recognizing the symptoms of acute back pain can help in seeking timely care. Common signs include:

Sharp pain: A sudden, intense pain that may radiate down the leg.
Tingling or burning sensation: Especially if nerves are affected.
Pain worse with movement: Difficulty in bending or standing.
Redness or swelling: Signs of inflammation in the back or spine
Severe pain: Persistent and intense pain in the spinal area.
Muscle spasms: Involuntary contractions causing stiffness.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help?

While acute back pain can often be managed with rest and home care, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Visit our Orthopedic Urgent Care centers in Granville or Coshocton if you experience the following:

Loss of bowel or bladder control: This could indicate a serious spinal condition.
Trauma: If your back pain follows an injury or fall.
Fever: Can suggest infection or other underlying conditions.

You may also contact our orthopedic doctors if you have the following symptoms:

Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
Pain lasts for more than a few weeks
Pain that spreads down to one or both of the legs
You are experiencing loss of sensation or tingling in your leg
You have unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis of Acute Back Pain

A thorough diagnosis involves:

Physical examination: Assessing mobility, posture, and pain points.
Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to view the spine and identify issues like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
Assessment of medical history: Identifying previous injuries or chronic back pain.

Treatment Options for Acute Back Pain

Treatment plans depend on the severity and cause of the pain. Common treatments include:

Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.
Physical therapy: Strengthening back and abdominal muscles to support the spine.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants to reduce pain and muscle spasms.
Manual therapy: Chiropractic adjustments or massage to relieve tension.
Surgery: In severe cases involving spinal cord compression or structural issues.

Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine offers comprehensive care tailored to your needs, from conservative treatments to advanced surgical interventions.

Strengthening Your Back for Long-Term Health

To prevent future episodes of acute low back pain, consider incorporating exercises that strengthen the abdominal and core muscles. Exercises for your back and stomach muscles will also increase blood flow to your back, which will help promote healing. Regular stretching, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good posture can also reduce the risk of recurrence.

When You Need Expert Care

If you’re struggling with acute back pain and it’s affecting your quality of life, it’s time to seek professional help. Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, with locations in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio, offers Orthopedic Urgent Care to help you recover and return to your daily activities.

Visit one of our offices today or schedule an appointment with our experienced team! We are here to help you feel your best.

Medically reviewed by Brad L. Bernacki, MD

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