Back pain is among the most common health problems worldwide, impacting people of all ages and professions. While many cases improve with rest, persistent or severe pain may indicate a deeper issue requiring expert care. Specialists warn that ignoring such symptoms can lead to long-term complications.
“Back pain is not just a nuisance—it can be a sign of underlying conditions such as disc herniation, arthritis, or osteoporosis,” said Dr. Neha Chaudhary, Consultant – Pain Clinic at Moolchand Hospital. “Knowing when to consult a pain management specialist makes all the difference in preventing chronic disability.”
Doctors cite a range of factors:
Muscle strain from lifting, poor posture, or overexertion.
Spinal issues including herniated discs, stenosis, or spondylosis.
Arthritis, leading to stiffness and degeneration.
Osteoporosis, which weakens bones and raises fracture risk.
Lifestyle habits, such as sedentary work, obesity, or poor ergonomics.
While mild pain may subside, experts urge patients to seek professional help if they experience:
Pain persisting beyond three weeks.
Shooting pain radiating to legs or buttocks (sciatica).
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
Trouble standing, walking, or maintaining posture.
Pain associated with fever, weight loss, or trauma.
“These symptoms should never be ignored as they may point to nerve involvement or systemic disease,” Dr. Chaudhary explained.
Unlike general treatment, pain management focuses on both diagnosis and long-term relief. Specialists provide:
Accurate evaluation of spinal and musculoskeletal problems.
Non-surgical and minimally invasive options to avoid major procedures.
Comprehensive care, addressing physical, psychological, and lifestyle aspects of pain.
Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and nerve pain medicines.
Interventional therapies: Epidural and facet joint injections, radiofrequency ablation.
Physical therapy: Muscle strengthening, posture correction, and flexibility training.
Lifestyle guidance: Ergonomic corrections, weight management, and daily exercise.
Doctors stress the importance of prevention:
Practice safe lifting techniques.
Take breaks from long hours of sitting.
Choose supportive mattresses and chairs.
Include stretching and mobility exercises in daily routines.
Back pain can disrupt work, sleep, and quality of life. But with modern pain management strategies, patients can regain mobility and comfort.
“At Moolchand, we use targeted, evidence-based therapies to help patients move beyond pain,” Dr. Chaudhary said. “The earlier people seek help, the better their chances of long-term relief.”