Neck & Back Pain

Understanding Spine Pain

Back and neck pain is extremely common - nearly everyone experiences it at some point in their lives. While many cases resolve on their own, chronic or severe pain may indicate an underlying condition that requires specialized treatment.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Back pain can result from various conditions affecting the spine:

• Herniated Discs: When the gel-like material inside a disc bulges through the exterior, it may compress nerves, resulting in pain and numbness.
• Radiculopathy: Also called a pinched nerve, this occurs when disc bulges or bone spurs compress nerve tissue, causing discomfort and tingling sensations.
• Skeletal Irregularities: Scoliosis creates abnormal spine curvature and typically develops symptomatically in adulthood.
• Compression Fractures: Vertebral breaks commonly stem from osteoporosis, which weakens bone density.
• Spinal Stenosis: The spinal canal narrows, creating pressure on nerve roots and causing pain.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear on spinal discs causing chronic pain.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

The cervical spine (neck) contains seven delicate vertebrae that support the head and allow for a wide range of motion. Neck pain can be caused by many of the same conditions that affect the lower back, including:

• Cervical disc herniation
• Cervical stenosis
• Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerves)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Muscle strain
• Poor posture

Diagnosis

Finding the source of your pain is the first step toward effective treatment. Dr. Lee will conduct a thorough evaluation including:

• Detailed review of your symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination
• Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans)

Once the underlying cause is identified, we'll explain all your treatment options and help you make an informed decision about your care.

Treatment Approach

We always begin with conservative treatments and only recommend surgery when non-surgical options haven't provided adequate relief:

Conservative Treatment

• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Epidural steroid injections
• Activity modification
• Heat and ice therapy

Surgical Treatment

When surgery is needed, Dr. Lee utilizes advanced, minimally invasive techniques to minimize pain, reduce recovery time, and achieve the best possible outcomes. The specific procedure recommended will depend on the underlying cause of your pain.