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Neck & Back Pain

Pacific Pain Physicians

Interventional Pain Management Specialists located in Santa Barbara, CA & San Luis Obispo, CA

Back pain and neck pain are widespread problems and among the most common of musculoskeletal complaints. Around 80% of Americans have back pain at some point during their lives and 10% experience neck pain in a given year. Pacific Pain Physicians in Santa Barbara, California, offers expert diagnosis and customized treatments to relieve back and neck pain. Schedule your appointment by calling the office or booking online today!

Neck & Back Pain Q & A

 

What are some of the common causes of neck pain and back pain?

Back pain is one of the most common causes of missed work and doctor’s appointments. Whether your back and neck pain is sharp and stabbing, dull, throbbing, or if it radiates through your arms or legs, Pacific Pain Physicians provides comprehensive evaluations to identify the cause of your pain.

Some of the common causes of back and neck pain include:

  • Muscle or ligament strains and spasms
  • Bulging or ruptured spinal discs
  • Nerve compression
  • Arthritis
  • Spinal irregularities, such as scoliosis and stenosis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Injuries from sports or automobile collisions
  • Poor posture

In many cases, you may not have an apparent cause of back or neck pain. Pacific Pain Physicians provides extensive testing and physical assessments to identify the underlying cause of your pain.

When should I talk to a doctor about my neck or back pain?

You should make an appointment at Pacific Pain Physicians if you have back or neck pain that lasts for more than a few days and doesn’t subside with rest, heat and ice, or over-the-counter pain relievers. If you have any pain, numbness, or weakness in your legs or arms, you should seek medical treatment immediately.

How is the cause of neck or back pain diagnosed?

Pacific Pain Physicians provides comprehensive physical exams, including diagnostic imaging studies, such as MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays, to identify the cause of your back or neck pain. They may also order blood tests, bone scans, or nerve conduction studies to gather more information about your pain.

During your exam, your doctor asks about your symptoms and medical history. They guide you through movements and watch you stand, walk, and lift your legs to identify any limitations to your range of motion. These assessments help them identify and locate the cause of your pain. 

How are neck and back pain treated?

Pacific Pain Physicians creates customized treatment plans, usually combining medication with other therapies to relieve your pain and heal the condition causing it. Your treatment plan may include physical therapy, spinal injections, trigger point therapy or injections, and nerve blocks. In severe cases, your doctor may recommend surgery or an implantable device like a spinal cord stimulator to relieve your pain.

Don’t let neck or back pain disrupt your life. Call Pacific Pain Physicians or make an appointment online today.