Low Back Pain

Low back pain is one of the most common medical complaints, affecting millions of people worldwide. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that makes movement difficult. Whether it’s caused by an injury, degenerative changes, or an underlying medical condition, persistent low back pain can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being.

Causes of Low Back Pain

Low back pain can arise from various factors, including:

  • Muscle Strain: Overuse, improper lifting, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, leading to pain and stiffness.
  • Herniated or Bulging Discs: The discs between the vertebrae act as cushions, but they can bulge or rupture, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Over time, the spinal discs naturally wear down, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.
  • Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs.
  • Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis can cause inflammation in the spine, leading to stiffness, decreased range of motion and pain.
  • Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: The sacroiliac joint connects the spine to the pelvis, and dysfunction in this joint can lead to lower back pain.
  • Other Medical Conditions: Kidney infections, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, and other medical issues can also contribute to low back pain.

Symptoms of Low Back Pain

The symptoms of low back pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent aching or stiffness in the lower back
  • Sharp, localized pain that worsens with movement
  • Pain radiating down the legs (sciatica)
  • Difficulty standing up straight or maintaining posture
  • Muscle spasms or tightness in the lower back
  • Limited range of motion in the lower back

When to See a Doctor

While some cases of low back pain improve with rest and self-care, medical evaluation is necessary if you experience:

  • Pain lasting longer than a few weeks
  • Severe pain that does not improve with rest
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
  • Unexplained weight loss alongside back pain
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking professional care is essential to prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment.

Treatment Options for Low Back Pain

At Ascent Pain, we offer a variety of advanced treatment options to help relieve low back pain and improve your quality of life. Some of our specialized treatments include:

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening and flexibility exercises tailored to your needs.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and provide long-term pain relief.
  • Nerve Blocks: A diagnostic and therapeutic option to pinpoint and alleviate pain.
  • Radiofrequency Denervation: A minimally invasive procedure that utilizes thermal energy to target and deactivate specific nerves that are transmitting pain signals to the brain.
  • Regenerative Medicine: Innovative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to promote healing.

Take the Next Step

If low back pain is affecting your daily life, you don’t have to suffer in silence. The expert team at Ascent Pain is here to help you find relief with personalized treatment options tailored to your condition. 

Call Ascent Pain at (504) 249-7576 or fill out our online form to request an appointment and take the first step toward lasting pain relief.