Back Pain
Kenneth K Wogensen, MD
Neurologist located in Arcadia, CA
Back pain affects almost every person at some point in their life. However, for some people, back pain can be a chronic problem that affects their quality of life day in and day out. Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, in Arcadia, California, specializes in the treatment of back pain and can help you get the relief you need so you can get back to doing the things you enjoy. To learn more about your treatment options for back pain, call the office today or request an appointment online.
Back Pain Q & A
What is back pain?
Back pain refers to any discomfort you experience in your back. The pain may be a dull, constant ache or a severe, sharp pain you experience every now and again. Back pain is a very common problem, but for most people, it doesn’t last more than a few weeks.
However, for about 20% of sufferers, acute back pain turns into chronic back pain, which is pain that lasts three months or longer. This type of pain can interfere with your daily life and not only affect you physically, but emotionally as well.
What causes back pain?
You can develop back pain from many causes. However, in most cases, back pain develops from a mechanical issue related to the muscles, tendons, cartilage, joints, or bones that make up your back.
Common causes of back pain include:
- Strains and sprains
- Herniated disc
- Arthritis
- Sciatica
- Radiculopathy
- Injury
Less often, back pain develops from an underlying disease, such as an infection or cancer.
How is back pain diagnosed?
Finding the underlying cause of your back pain can sometimes be difficult, but helps direct your treatment. Dr. Wogensen conducts comprehensive examinations to help identify the source of your pain. To assist in the diagnosis, he may recommend special tests, such as a nerve conduction study or electromyography, which assesses nerve health and damage that may be the source of your back pain.
What treatments can help me get relief from my back pain?
Treatment for your back pain may depend on the underlying cause. No single treatment works for all people with back pain, and Dr. Wogensen works closely with you to develop the most effective plan that helps improve your quality of life.
Treatment for back pain may include:
- Physical therapy
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Anticonvulsants for nerve pain
- Antidepressants
- Nerve blocks
- Epidural injections
If you fail to get relief from conservative treatments, Dr. Wogensen may refer you to a surgeon for an evaluation.
Back pain is common, but can be treated with the right therapies. For management of your back pain, call Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, today or book an appointment online.