Back pain isn’t an extraordinary problem for most people. In most cases, some rest and over-the-counter medications are enough to alleviate the pain. If your condition worsens, however, there is a root problem that needs to be addressed. The solution? Schedule a check-up with an orthopaedic specialist.
Why consult with an orthopaedic surgeon?
Orthopaedic surgeons are dedicated to studying everything about the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Their study involves the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of any disorders relating to these body parts.
It’s important to consult with an orthopaedic surgeon when you experience extreme back pain. They are experts equipped with extensive knowledge and training in proper diagnosis and treatment (both the surgical and non-surgical) for injuries and diseases relating to the body’s musculoskeletal system.
What causes back pain?
Several factors can cause back pain: bad posture, an intense injury, or even overexertion during exercise. To know and address the real cause of the pain, its intensity, and the appropriate treatment, consult with an expert. They have the experience and technical expertise to evaluate your situation and recommend ways to bring your body back to normal. They can also perform pain-relief injections or recommend therapy to patients who don’t want invasive treatments.
When should you see an orthopaedic surgeon?
Set an appointment with your orthopaedic surgeon as soon as you experience any of the following:
1. Acute back pain that lasts for more than a week without fading
2. Severe discomfort that inhibits your ability to perform daily tasks
3. Pain in your back along with weakness or numbness in your groin area, hip, or leg
These symptoms could be pointing to underlying conditions, such as:
Herniated Disc
The discs act as the shock absorber between the vertebrae bones of your spine, each one helping to make your back more flexible for movement. When the outer layer of your disc herniates or tears apart, it’s centre will begin to leak. This leakage can cause irritation and add pressure on your spinal cord and its nerves, resulting in back pain.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve is the thickest and longest nerve found in the body. It begins on your lower back and stretches down the back of each leg up until your feet. When this nerve becomes compressed or inflamed, it can cause shooting pain from the lower back to radiate throughout your leg and all the way down your foot. It is accompanied by weakness, numbness, and a tingling sensation.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Your spinal discs lose water content as you age. Because of this, they become less flexible and shorter, making them more prone to injury, rupture, and collapse. When spinal discs lose water, it will prevent them from getting enough blood supply which can lead to a deterioration called degenerative disc disease.
These conditions, however, can be successfully treated by an orthopaedic surgeon. You just need to go to one as soon as you see the early signs.
Conclusion
While a little rest and some pain reliever can help ease your back pain condition, you have to know when you need a real medical intervention. Prevention is always better than cure. As soon as you observed that there is something wrong in your back area, consult a professional immediately.
If you’re looking for a trusted orthopaedic surgeon in Frankston, VIC, contact Dr David Edis. As an orthopaedic surgeon with extensive experience in all facets of spine surgery, he’s more than ready to help!
About Dr David Edis
Dr David Edis is an Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon. David’s areas of special interest include the management of adult spinal conditions as well as hip and knee replacements. He has extensive experience in all facets of spine surgery from simple to complex, covering cervical to lumbo-pelvic conditions. He is an active researcher and medical educator and believes in lifelong learning. He is constantly updating his skills and helping other surgeons.
