SEVA PAIN INSTITUTE
LOW BACK PAIN
Low back pain is a widespread problem in America today — approximately 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point during their lives. At SEVA Pain Institute, in Tracy, California, Gurpreet Dhaliwal, MD, relieves low back pain with innovative, treatments designed to help you get back to your healthy and active life. Call SEVA Pain Institute today or make an appointment online.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between a headache and a migraine?
Your spine bears the physical stress of keeping your body upright and mobile. It also houses and protects the nerves that send critical messages between your body and brain. As a result, your back is vulnerable to degenerative conditions and injuries. Some of the common causes of low back pain include:
- Arthritis
- Herniated discs and degenerative disc disease
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Facet or sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Fractures
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Nerve compression or impingement
Your lifestyle also contributes to your risk of low back pain. For example, if you spend all day slumped at a desk and don’t get much physical activity, it can stress your spine, and your muscles may not be strong enough to provide adequate support.
Being overweight or obese can also overtax your spine and back muscles. And of course, you should always use correct form when picking up or moving heavy objects to reduce your risk of injury.
How is the cause of low back pain diagnosed?
At SEVA Pain Institute, Dr. Dhaliwal diagnoses the cause of your lower back pain with a physical exam. He feels for abnormalities and may guide you through some gentle movements to gauge your pain and lost mobility. Dr. Dhaliwal may also use diagnostic imaging studies or nerve conduction studies to identify the cause of your pain.
How is low back pain treated?
Dr. Dhaliwal creates customized treatment plans depending on the specific condition causing your low back pain. He offers pharmacological and non-pharmacological options, using innovative therapies and interventions to help you recover. For example, you may benefit from physical therapy, including exercises, stretches, and massage to release tension and improve the strength and flexibility of your muscles. Dr. Dhaliwal may also recommend neurostimulation, nerve blocks, relaxation, biofeedback, acupuncture, exercise, and counseling.
Can I prevent low back pain?
One of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of low back pain is to stay physically active. Getting regular exercise not only keeps your muscles strong and supple, but it also helps you maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your spine. Also, make sure to protect your back at work — whether you need to be mindful of how you lift or move objects or if you need to make sure your desk is set up correctly to reduce stress on your back.
If you have low back pain, call SEVA Pain Institute today or schedule a consultation online.