SEATTLE — If you’ve experienced back pain, you likely understand how it can disrupt your life and make it harder to complete daily tasks. One of the main causes of back pain is a sprain or strain.
“Sometimes when we do activities that we’re not quite used to, or we pick up a weight that’s a bit heavier than we’re used to, we just kind of strain one of the big muscles in the back and that can cause back pain,” said Dr. James Abe, a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician at EvergreenHealth.
Symptoms of a sprain or strain typically only last a couple of days and can be treated at home with remedies like rest, ice and heat.
Other causes of back pain can be a herniated/bulged disc, fractured vertebrae or spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the space where your spinal cord sits or of the small spaces where your nerves leave your spine.
You should seek medical care for back pain if it lasts for more than four to six weeks or it’s excruciating and not getting better with over-the-counter medications. It’s also best to see a medical provider if the pain is following an accident or fall, if the pain is waking you up in the middle of the night or if the pain is extending down your leg.
Treatment can vary based on the reason for your pain.
“Usually, the first thing we try is physical therapy,” Dr. Abe said. “Physical therapy for most back pain is a very, very effective treatment.”
A provider can also prescribe you medications that are not opioids and non-addictive. If physical therapy and medication don’t work, injections or surgery may be necessary.
The team at EvergreenHealth Sport & Spine Care will work with you to find the source of your pain and recommend effective treatment options. There are three locations in Kirkland, Canyon Park and Monroe.
“If you at all feel you have something that’s more complicated than simple back pain, I definitely recommend people seek out care,” Dr. Abe said.
If you’re experiencing back pain that is affecting your quality of life, it may be time to see an expert. Visit the EvergreenHealth website.
Sponsored by EvergreenHealth
Segment Producer Joseph Suttner. Watch New Day Northwest 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.