Have you ever experienced nagging back pain? Whether your pain stems from a slip-and-fall, an athletic injury or general wear-and-tear, you may find yourself asking, “When is it time to see a back doctor?” We sat down with Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics Spine Surgeon and 2020 Castle Connolly Top Doctor, Dr. Colin Crosby, to find out the 5 signs it is time to see a Spine Specialist.
We know surgery may not be the right answer for everyone, but talking with a spine specialist like Dr. Crosby will help you get on the track you need for a full recovery. Acute back pain from smaller injuries can be treated with simpler remedies such as the rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is time to make an appointment with one of our spine surgeons.
1. Arm or Leg Nerve Pain and or Numbness
2. Weakness
3. Difficulty Walking
4. Feeling Off Balance
5. Bowel or Bladder Loss of Control
Spinal Conditions You May be Diagnosed With
Whether you are experiencing one or all of these symptoms, it is important to talk with a specialist to rule out any major spinal issues. Some patients may improve with time, but the earlier you talk with your doctor, the better. There are a host of causes of these symptoms that your doctor can discuss with you, but a few of them include:
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. This usually occurs in the low back and neck. If you think you may have spinal stenosis, our spine specialists can help you with a treatment plan.
Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
This neck condition happens when the spinal cord is compressed. It is usually caused by aging or wear and tear. If you think you may have cervical spondylotic myelopathy, our spine doctors can help you with a treatment plan.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc refers to issues with the soft, rubbery disc between the spinal bones. Herniated discs can cause pain, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs. Our spine surgeons can help with pain management and a treatment plan for a herniated disc.
Pinched Nerve
When too much pain is applied by surrounding tissues, a pinched nerve can occur and cause pain. Our spine specialists will determine the best treatment plan for a full recovery.
Seek Help From the Best Back Doctor in Nashville
Our spine doctors will help determine the cause of your back pain and get you on track to a full recovery. With in-house imaging, physical therapy and 5 locations in the Nashville and Franklin area, quality patient care has never been more convenient.
Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics is home to two of the best spine specialists in Nashville, TN and Franklin, TN. Dr. R. Chris Glattes and Dr. Colin Crosby have both been recognized as Castle Connolly Top Doctors.
You can learn more about our spine doctors here.
Author: AMWN Dev
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