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Revolutionizing Spine Care…Changing Lives

WHAT IS ACUTE NECK & BACK PAIN?

Acute neck & back pain is not a particular type of pain but is based on how long it has lasted. The time frame considered for acute neck & back pain varies by injury type but is typically three weeks to three months.  Generally, acute neck & back pain follows a course that is typical or expected for a particular type of injury. The pain is usually more severe initially and gradually goes away.

Symptoms

Acute pain related to the spine may arise in the back and/or legs and in the neck and/or arms. Sensations of aching, numbness, burning, or tingling may be felt.

Diagnosing

The doctor will review your history and perform a physical exam. X-rays or other images are not usually indicated unless the pain has lasted at least four weeks.

Imaging may be done to rule out a fracture or other potentially more serious problems in certain situations. A more extensive evaluation will be performed if there are symptoms indicating nerve injuries, such as loss of bowel/bladder control or weakness in the extremities.

Treatments

Treatment for most acute back/neck pain includes activity modification, education, physical therapy, and/or medication. It is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor in deciding which treatment, if any, may be best for you. Unless there is a neurologic reason (such as loss of bowel or bladder function for significant nerve or spinal cord compression), acute pain is generally not addressed surgically.

Leaders in Advanced Spine Procedures

To find out whether you would benefit from artificial disc surgery, make an appointment to visit Texas Back Institute in the Dallas, TX, area for an evaluation. We always reserve surgery as a last resort, so we’ll seek to relieve pain first through conservative treatments such as physical therapy and pain management. If severe pain persists and it is determined that you would benefit from surgery, we can help you determine whether artificial disc replacement is right for you.

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