Why Do I Have Constant Pain in My Spine

It is normal to experience mild, fleeting spine pain from time to time. However, it is not normal to experience constant pain in your spine. Such symptoms are caused by an underlying spine problem which will require medical attention. Below, we will take a look at some possible causes of spine pain, as well as how such conditions may be treated.

Causes of Spine Pain

Spine pain can be caused by a wide range of spine problems. In general, the symptoms of different spine conditions are very similar to one another, so the doctor will need to use diagnostic testing to determine the exact cause. 

Possible causes of back pain include:

• Herniated disc - Each of the vertebrae is separated by a disc, which is made of cartilage and serves to absorb shock and protect the vertebrae from one another. If the disc ruptures and becomes misshapen, it can press against the nerve roots or spinal cord, causing pain.
• Bone spurs - Bone spurs are abnormal deposits on the vertebrae. They may rub against the spinal cord or nerve roots.
• Spondylolisthesis - This condition occurs when one vertebrae slips past another vertebrae, so that they are rubbing against one another.
• Spinal arthritis - Arthritis refers to the inflammation of a joint. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of arthritis can occur in the spine.
• Alignment problems - Major problems with spinal alignment, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, can cause pain.
• Spinal tumors - In rare cases, benign or cancerous tumors may develop along the spine. This is an unusual condition, and requires treatment by a specialist.

Diagnosis

Because the presence of pain is common to all of the above conditions and more, further testing is used to diagnose the exact cause. Your doctor will begin by asking you about your symptoms. Next, he will perform a physical examination, focusing on the spine. Finally, the doctor will order diagnostic imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans. Based on this information, the physician will be able to make a diagnosis.

Treatments

A number of treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, are used to treat spine conditions. Your doctor will work with you to determine which treatment is most appropriate in your case. In general, non-invasive and minimally invasive options will be exhausted before invasive spine surgery is considered.

Dr. Sukdeb Datta would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your spine pain. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (212) 430-0312.