Every year, more than 30 million Americans experience low-back pain at any given time. Yet, many just assume this is part of a busy, active, modern life. They go about their days silently suffering and, sadly, chronic pain becomes the new normal.
Perhaps people believe that back pain is simply part of the aging process (it doesn’t have to be). Or, if they are or were athletic, perhaps they blame an old sports injury or years of aggressive playing as finally taking its toll.
To relieve back pain, many will try gentle exercise, Yoga, or even water aerobics. Others may rely on anti-inflammatories, hot baths, a chiropractor, or even a brand-new mattress. While all of these remedies can temporarily alleviate back pain, the only real way to get to the root of the problem is clear: visit a doctor who specializes in orthopedic medicine.
There are a lot of gray areas when it comes to understanding back pain, but if you have back pain, you should know when it is time to go to an orthopedist. An orthopedist, also called an orthopedic physician, specialist, or doctor is an expert of the musculoskeletal system (the body’s bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissue). When you have an injury or condition involving the musculoskeletal system, an orthopedist is the right type of doctor to see.
If you still need some clues on when to see an orthopedist, consider the following.
Accidents and Injuries
Have you been in an accident or suffered an injury that left you with back pain? If so, your orthopedist can determine the extent of your injury and devise a treatment plan. Even though your pain might not be consistent, accidents can strain ligaments and muscles in your back. Perhaps you have torn tissue or broken bones. All the heating pads in the world can’t remedy this. See an orthopedist make sure you are okay or if you need treatment.
Chronic Pain
Despite debilitating pain, many Americans choose not to see an orthopedist but instead rely on opioids and similar medications that may leave them dependent or addicted. If your back pain is caused by a chipped bone, sciatica, or bulging or herniated disc, it may be time to visit an orthopedist. Sometimes, the pain can dissipate with rest, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy after visiting with your orthopedic doctor. However, when that doesn’t do the trick, you will need to visit an orthopedist. At a minimum, they will take into account your medical history and will most likely order imaging to get to the bottom of why you are in pain.
Back Pain Treatment in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes, Florida
If you have back pain, visit the experts at Total Orthopaedic Care today. We provide superior orthopedic services for all of life’s bumps, breaks, and bruises. We offer comprehensive care for general orthopedics, sports medicine, hand and wrist treatment, total joint reconstruction, advanced arthroscopic procedures, PRP and biologic therapies, and more.
To make an appointment, please call (954) 735-3535. You can also fill out our online appointment request form.
