Millions of men and women experience back pain each year. For many, the pain will be acute, and resolve with conservative treatments. Others will experience chronic back pain, which will last for more than six weeks and will require medical interventions to successfully treat. Treatment for back pain in Los Angeles will depend upon what is causing it. Unfortunately, without seeing a skilled back and spine physician, it is difficult to accurately diagnose the specific cause of your pain. If you have back pain that does not go away, it is recommended that you see a top Los Angeles spine and back physician for testing, diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Back pain may be caused by issues such as a strained or strained ligament, muscle, or tendon. These types of injuries often occur during sports injuries, or as the result of lifting an object. Back pain is also very frequently caused by a herniated or slipped disc, which puts pressure on the nerves leading to pain. Treatment for slipped or herniated discs will vary, with some men and women responding to nonsurgical treatments, while others may require disc surgery.

Dr. Khounganian also treats many men and women suffering from pinched nerves, which result in radiculopathy. Radiculopathy is the medical term for nerve pain frequently caused by a herniated disc or bone spur.

Back pain is also frequently caused by a fracture on one or more vertebrae. Fractures may result from accidents, a fall, or as the result of a condition such as osteoarthritis. For other men and women throughout Los Angeles, back pain may result from degenerative conditions that result from overuse, and/or wear and tear affiliated with the aging process. Examples of these types of conditions include degenerative disc disease, where the discs which are supposed to serve as a cushion between the vertebrae shrink or tear, causing the bones to rub together.

In addition, although spinal tumors and disease are not common causes of back pain, some individuals do develop serious back pain due to tumors, disease, and other conditions such as scoliosis, ankylosing spondylitis, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. Finally, other men and women in Los Angeles who are experiencing back pain may find that they can reduce the pain with simple lifestyle modifications such as losing weight, getting more exercise, maintaining good posture while standing and/or sitting at a desk, avoiding lifting heavy objects and quitting smoking.

When to See a Spine Doctor for Back Pain

Most acute back pain caused by a sprain or strain will resolve in time. You may want to contact your physician about an over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medication. You may also find relief with heating pads or patches, and/or icing your back. However, keep in mind that although the inclination to lay down may be strong; in many cases, it is best to try to take walks, and stand periodically when experiencing back pain.

If your back pain persists, and or worsens, you should schedule an appointment with a top back and spine specialist in Los Angeles. Dr. Khounganian has successfully treated countless men and women suffering from myriad spinal deformities, injuries, degenerative conditions, fractures and more. Dr. Khounganian explores all possible conservative treatments before considering whether you may benefit from a minimally invasive spine surgery. Conservative treatments often include special exercises performed via physical therapy. In other cases, specialized injections may be recommended to help alleviate your pain.

If surgery is necessary to correct a problem in the spine, Dr. Khounganian prefers minimally invasive surgery, due to the reduction of risks, the expedited recovery, and the successful results. Dr. Khounganian is also available and happy to provide a second opinion if you've been referred for surgery by another doctor.

If you're suffering from back pain, that will not resolve on its own, schedule an appointment today with top Los Angeles spine specialist Dr. Khounganian. Contact his friendly team today at 818-343-4430