Chronic back pain — pain lasting longer than three months — is one of the leading causes of disability and missed work worldwide. At Norvinia Health, Dr. Mamta Ojha takes a comprehensive approach to identifying the underlying cause of back pain and building a treatment plan aimed at reducing pain and restoring function.
What Causes Chronic Back Pain?
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Osteoarthritis of the spine
- Muscle strain or poor posture over time
- Spondylolisthesis (a vertebra slipping out of place)
- Compression fractures, especially with osteoporosis
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Obesity, which increases mechanical stress on the spine
- Sedentary lifestyle and deconditioning
When Back Pain Needs Urgent Evaluation
Certain symptoms alongside back pain require prompt medical attention:
- New numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Fever with back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain following significant trauma
- Back pain in the setting of a history of cancer
How Is Chronic Back Pain Evaluated?
- Detailed history of pain onset, pattern, and aggravating or relieving factors
- Physical examination, including strength, reflexes, and range of motion
- Imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT) when red-flag symptoms or persistent pain are present
- Blood tests, when an inflammatory or infectious cause is suspected
Treatment Approaches
- Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve mobility
- Anti-inflammatory or other pain-relief medications
- Activity modification and posture correction
- Weight management to reduce mechanical stress on the spine
- Targeted exercise programs, including core strengthening and stretching
- Referral to pain management or spine specialists for advanced cases
- Injections (such as epidural steroid injections) for select patients
- Surgery, reserved for specific structural problems that don’t respond to conservative care
Preventing Chronic Back Pain
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, practicing good posture, using proper lifting technique, and strengthening core muscles all help reduce the risk of developing or worsening chronic back pain.
The Importance of Regular Primary Care
Chronic back pain deserves a thorough evaluation to identify treatable causes and avoid unnecessary long-term disability. Dr. Mamta Ojha works with patients to build a stepwise treatment plan, coordinating with physical therapists and specialists as needed.
If you are dealing with ongoing back pain, schedule an appointment with Norvinia Health today.
References
American College of Physicians — Clinical Guidelines for Low Back Pain.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) — Back Pain Information.
