Back and neck problems are very common, affecting as many as 8 in 10 Americans. While most people may feel the effects of back or neck discomfort at some time in their lives, for many, this pain will persist and become chronic.

Acute back pain, usually resulting from an accident, twisting wrong, or general lack of exercise, will often last for a few days and into several weeks. If this pain persists more than three months, it is considered to be chronic.

Common problems include:

• Muscle strain related to intense or sustained physical activity
• Herniated disc
• Osteoarthritis, in which there is deterioration of the cartilage coating the facet joint of the spine
• Spinal stenosis, in which the spinal canal narrows and nerves are damaged or pinched
• Degenerative disc disease, which causes arm pain and numbness accompanied by bulging discs and pinched nerves
• Sciatica, which involves bulging discs pinching nerves and pain radiating down one or both legs
• Osteoporosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Not only do these problems cause pain and suffering, but each of them will create additional problems that manifest in a number of ways, ranging from mild discomfort to severe and immobilizing pain.

If a pain in the neck or back persists, you should contact your physician for an evaluation.

If you or someone you care about needs help with spine problems, contact one of the skilled specialists on the Sierra Surgery medical staff. Click here to view a list of spine surgeons on the medical staff.

Sierra’s hotel-like setting, professional staff, and attention to detail offers you a comfortable, convenient alternative for spine care.