Neck and Back Pain Experts in San Antonio

What is neck and back pain?

Neck and back pain are common musculoskeletal conditions that can cause discomfort and distress. Both neck and back pain often involve muscle tension, structural issues with the spine, or nerve-related problems that can lead to discomfort and decreased mobility. Neck and back pain can arise due to lifestyle choices such as long hours seated a desk, sleeping in an awkward position, overstraining your back while lifting something, and more. Conditions such as osteoarthritis or scoliosis can also play a large role in the pain you are experiencing. If you are experiencing pain that is inhibiting you in your everyday life, it is encouraged that you make an appointment with an orthopedic doctor in order to get to the root of the neck or back pain that you are experiencing. Learn more below about the anatomy, causes, symptoms, and treatments of neck and back pain.

Neck and spine Anatomy

The spine, encompassing the neck (cervical spine) and beyond, is a vital framework supporting and providing structure to the body. It is comprised of 33 vertebrae, including seven in the neck (C1 to C7), which protect the spinal cord. Between each vertebrae are intervertebral discs which act as a cushion, offering flexibility and shock absorption. The spinal cord, nestled within the canal, transmits brain-body signals, while nerves branching from it control functions and relay sensations. Muscles, ligaments, and blood vessels support the spine, enabling movement and ensuring blood supply. Additionally, the neck's intricacies include throat structures—windpipe, esophagus, thyroid gland, and vital muscles—supporting breathing, swallowing, and speech, collectively contributing to its complexity and role in bodily function.

The main causes of neck or back pain: 

  • Muscle Strain: Overuse of neck muscles due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or sudden awkward movements can cause strain and discomfort.

  • Poor Posture: Maintaining an incorrect posture while sitting, standing, or sleeping can put stress on the neck and back muscles, leading to pain and stiffness.

  • Trauma or Injury: Whiplash from accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause damage to the neck aand back muscles, ligaments, or discs, resulting in pain.

  • Degenerative Conditions: Cervical spondylosis (osteoarthritis of the neck), spinal stenosis, or herniated discs can contribute to neck pain.

  • Pinched Nerves: Compression of nerves in the neck and back due to conditions like herniated discs or bone spurs can cause radiating pain.

  • Herniated or Bulging Discs: Discs between vertebrae protrude and press on nerves, causing back pain.

  • Spinal Abnormalities: Conditions like scoliosis, kyphosis, or other structural irregularities can cause chronic back pain.

  • Medical Conditions: Diseases such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, or meningitis might present with neck pain as a symptom. Osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or degenerated discs can contribute to back pain.

Neck and Back Pain Experts in San Antonio, Texas

What is the difference between acute and chronic back pain?

Acute and chronic pain are differentiated by their duration, underlying causes, and how the pain affects the individual. Acute neck or back pain will typically last for a short period of time (typically less than three months), while chronic pain is persistent for a more extended period of time. The root cause of the pain also distinguishes acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is caused through a specific incident such as a muscle strain, injury (like a fall or accident), poor posture, or lifting heavy objects incorrectly. Chronic pain, on the other hand, develops over time through degenerative conditions like arthritis, structural issues (such as herniated discs), long-term poor posture, repetitive stress injuries, or unresolved acute injuries. Symptoms will present differently for acute versus chronic pain. If experiencing acute pain, it is typically intense and sharp, often limiting movement. If experiencing chronic pain, symptoms are usually dull or sharp pain accompanied by stiffness, limited mobility, and discomfort that persists for a long time. If you are curious what type of pain you are experiencing, schedule an appointment today to get to the root of your pain!

What are the Most Common symptoms of Neck and back pain?

Neck and back pain often present with overlapping symptoms. Common indicators include localized discomfort, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected area. Individuals may experience dull aching, sharp, or shooting pain that may radiate to the shoulders, arms (for neck pain), or down the legs (for back pain) if nerves are involved. Numbness, tingling sensations, or weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet can occur. Additionally, headaches and muscle spasms might accompany neck or back pain. Difficulty in maintaining proper posture, especially for extended periods, and discomfort exacerbated by specific movements or positions are also frequent complaints associated with these conditions.

Treatment Options for neck and back pain in San Antonio:

Non-Surgical Treatments:

  1. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs, acetaminophen) to alleviate mild to moderate pain. Prescription medications might be necessary for severe pain.

  2. Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises, stretches, and manual therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and posture.

  3. Posture Adjustments: Improving posture and modifying workstations, using proper mattresses, pillows, and supportive chairs.

  4. Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, quitting smoking, and regular exercise to improve overall health and reduce strain on the spine.

Interventional Treatments:

  1. Injections: Epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, or facet joint injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain temporarily.

Surgical Options (Reserved for Severe Cases):

  1. Discectomy: Removal of part or all of a herniated disc that's pressing on a nerve.

  2. Spinal Fusion: Joining vertebrae together to stabilize the spine, often used for conditions like severe degenerative disc disease or instability.

  3. Artificial Disc Replacement: Replacing a damaged or degenerated disc with an artificial one, preserving spine motion.

It's important to note that the choice of treatment will be determined by your orthopedic specialist based on the specific circumstances of the spine or neck. Early and accurate diagnosis, along with prompt medical attention, is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

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