Back Pain Causes and How a Spine Surgeon Helps | Dr. Sachin Patil

Back pain is one of the most prevalent health issues worldwide, affecting people of all ages. Whether caused by poor posture, injury, or an underlying medical condition, persistent back pain can significantly impact daily life. In many cases, consulting a spine surgeon can be the key to effective diagnosis and treatment.

In this blog, Dr. Sachin Patil, a Consultant Spine Surgeon in Nasik, explains the common causes of back pain and how specialized spine care can help restore mobility and relieve discomfort.

Common Causes of Back Pain

1. Muscle Strain and Ligament Sprain

• Overuse, heavy lifting, or sudden movements can strain muscles and ligaments in the back.

• Poor posture while sitting or standing for prolonged periods can worsen the condition.

2. Herniated or Bulging Discs

• The spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When they bulge or rupture, they can press on nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

• Symptoms may radiate to the legs (sciatica) or arms, depending on the affected area of the spine.

3. Degenerative Disc Disease

• Age-related wear and tear can cause spinal discs to lose flexibility and height, leading to chronic pain and stiffness.

• In severe cases, it may contribute to conditions like spinal stenosis.

4. Spinal Stenosis

• Narrowing of the spinal canal due to aging, arthritis, or congenital factors can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

• Symptoms include pain, numbness, or weakness, especially while walking or standing for long periods.

5. Scoliosis and Spinal Deformities

• Abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis, kyphosis, or lordosis) can lead to pain, difficulty in movement, and posture-related issues.

• Severe cases may require surgical correction.

6. Osteoporosis and Spinal Fractures

• Weakening of bones due to osteoporosis increases the risk of spinal fractures, leading to sudden and severe back pain.

• Compression fractures are common, particularly in older adults.

7. Infections and Tumors

• Infections like spinal osteomyelitis or tumors can cause persistent back pain, fever, or neurological issues.

• Early diagnosis is crucial for preventing complications.

8. Traumatic Injuries

• Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue damage in the spine.

• Some injuries may require surgical stabilization for proper healing.

How a Spine Surgeon Can Help

A Consultant Spine Surgeon like Dr. Sachin Patil specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal conditions. Depending on the severity of your back pain, a spine surgeon may recommend:

1. Conservative Treatments

• Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises and posture correction techniques.

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or muscle relaxants.

• Injections: Epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve inflammation.

2. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)

• Advanced techniques with smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less pain.

• Common MISS procedures include microdiscectomy, spinal fusion, and vertebroplasty.

3. Spinal Fusion Surgery

• Used for conditions like degenerative disc disease or spinal instability.

• Involves joining two or more vertebrae to provide stability and reduce pain.

4. Disc Replacement Surgery

• An alternative to spinal fusion, where a damaged disc is replaced with an artificial disc to maintain movement.

5. Corrective Surgery for Spinal Deformities

• Procedures like scoliosis correction surgery help restore proper spinal alignment.

When to See a Spine Surgeon?

• Chronic back pain lasting more than six weeks.
• Pain radiating to the arms or legs (sciatica).
• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the limbs.
• Difficulty walking, standing, or balancing.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency).

Back pain can disrupt your daily life, but the right treatment can restore function and improve quality of life. If you're struggling with persistent pain, Dr. Sachin Patil, a Consultant Spine Surgeon in Nasik, offers expert evaluation and advanced treatment options. Schedule a consultation today to regain your mobility and live pain-free!