Lower Back Pain Treatment in San Antonio
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek medical care. It can develop from a variety of spine conditions, including disc problems, nerve compression, or degenerative changes within the lumbar spine.
Some cases of lower back pain may resolve with time, while others may persist and interfere with daily activities. At MD Spine Care in San Antonio, our specialists evaluate the underlying cause of lower back pain to determine the most appropriate treatment options.
Common Symptoms of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain can present in different ways depending on the underlying cause.
Symptoms may include:
• persistent aching in the lower back
• sharp or localized pain
• pain that radiates into the buttocks or legs
• stiffness or limited range of motion
• pain that worsens with movement, lifting, or prolonged sitting
Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?
What Causes Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain can result from several spine conditions, including:
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc can place pressure on nearby nerves and cause pain in the lower back or legs.
Degenerative Disc Changes
Age-related changes in the spine can lead to disc degeneration and chronic back pain.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal may compress nerves and contribute to lower back pain and leg symptoms.
Muscle Strain or Injury
Overuse, improper lifting, or sudden movements can strain muscles in the lower back.
How How Lower Back Pain Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation that includes a review of symptoms and medical history. A spine specialist may assess mobility, strength, and nerve function.
Imaging studies such as
MRI
or CT scans may be recommended to identify underlying spine conditions contributing to lower back pain.
Treatment Options for Lower Back Pain
Many patients improve with conservative treatment.
Options may include:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the spine, improving flexibility, and promoting proper movement patterns to help reduce pain and improve function.
Activity Modification
Adjusting daily activities, posture, and movement habits may help reduce strain on the lower back and prevent symptoms from worsening.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Medications may be used to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with certain spine conditions.
Targeted Injections
Image-guided injections may be used to deliver medication directly to the source of inflammation or nerve irritation to help manage symptoms.
If symptoms persist or worsen, further treatment options, including procedures, may be considered.
When to See a Spine Specialist
You should consider evaluation by a spine specialist at MD Spine Care if you experience:
- Persistent back pain lasting more than several weeks
- Pain that radiates into the legs, or experiencing numbness or weakness
- Difficulty walking or performing daily activities
- Symptoms that interfere with normal daily activities
Early evaluation can help identify spinal stenosis and determine appropriate treatment options before symptoms worsen.
What is the most common cause of lower back pain?
Lower back pain is often caused by disc-related conditions, muscle strain, or degenerative changes in the spine.
Can lower back pain go away on its own?
Some cases improve with rest and conservative care, but persistent pain should be evaluated.
Schedule a Spine Evaluation in San Antonio
If you are experiencing persistent lower back pain, the spine specialists at MD Spine Care in San Antonio can evaluate your condition and
recommend appropriate treatment options.
Patients in San Antonio experiencing back pain may benefit from evaluation by a spine specialist.
This information is reviewed by
Dr. Frank Kuwamura, Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, and the spine specialists at MD Spine Care.
