Pain in the lower back can, unfortunately, be caused by a variety of issues. Getting the correct diagnosis is the first step to treating the problem, though many people may be told they have a "disc problem" without getting to the root cause of the pain.
What is a disc problem?
A disc problem can be any number of issues with the intervertebral discs that act as cushions between the bones of the spine. For example, an x-ray or MRI may reveal degenerative disc disease, a bulging disc, or disc narrowing, all of which are normal parts of aging, and many of which don't usually cause pain on their own. It could be easy to chalk the pain up to one of these issues, when in reality, the pain in the lower back is caused by something else.
Some symptoms of disc issues in the lower back
Getting the correct diagnosis for your disc issues starts with identifying the common times and activities that bring on or increase the pain. Make a note to share with your doctor on what you were doing when the pain set in. Common onset of pain symptoms include:
- Back pain - severe pain that can interfere with normal activities
- Difficulty bending forward - bending forward can put pressure on the disc, causing pain
- Difficulty getting out of bed in the morning - the discs naturally swell at night while we are sleeping, so they're swollen first thing in the morning
- Difficulty with sitting - a sitting position puts pressure on the disc
- Radiating leg pain (sciatica) - occurs when a herniated disc irritates the nerve root
Who to talk to about lower back pain and disc concerns
A good first step is to see your primary care practitioner or a Primary Spine Practitioner (PSP). A PSP is a chiropractor or physical therapist trained in the diagnosis and management of patients with back and neck problems. We will get detailed information and do a focused examination to diagnose the problem. Sometimes an x-ray or MRI is necessary, but not always.
Treatment for disc pain
As a PSP, I can recommend the best ways to get you back to normal as quickly as possible. These recommendations usually include minimally invasive and minimally time-consuming approaches, many of which you can do for yourself. Sometimes physical therapy is helpful to get you on a more detailed exercise program and to ensure that you're moving safely and effectively. In most cases, you can expect fairly quick resolution of your symptoms..
In a relative minority of cases, a person with disc pain may need injections or a visit to a spine surgeon. If that is the case, I can coordinate the referral and communicate with the other physicians to make sure everyone is on the same page.
As part of the Musculoskeletal Health Program, I help Brown Health Medical Group Primary Care patients with a variety of conditions affecting the muscles and joints, including disc pain. Brown Health Medical Group Primary Care patients who are experiencing muscle or joint pain can speak with their primary care provider or call 401-330-2488 for more information about the program.
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