​Back and Neck Injuries

There are many reasons for low back pain. Low back pain can be caused by excessive stress to the back, poor posture, weak abdominal muscles, tight hamstring muscles, arthritis of the spine, or misaligned vertebrae. Symptoms can include localized pain in the back or outer side of t he thigh, or pain that radiates from the back or leg, all the way to the foot.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will, most likely, order a series of tests to rule out the cause of low back pain. Tests include:

• X-rays
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a non-x-ray study that allows an evaluation of the spinal cord and nerve roots.
• CT (computed tomography) is a specialized x-ray study that allows careful evaluation of the bone and spinal canal.
• Bone scans look for areas of possible infection, tumor, or fracture.
• Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests see how well nerves in the arms and legs conduct electrical signals.
• Bone density studies may be ordered if osteoporosis is a concern. Osteoporosis by itself should not cause back pain, but fractures due to osteoporosis can.

Treatment

A comprehensive evaluation and treatment program by a physical therapist is the best approach to relieving low back pain.

There are many nonsurgical treatments available. A few days of rest can often calm down inflammation and reduce pain. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or acetaminophen also can be helpful.

Prevention

• Maintain a regular exercise program focusing on flexibility and strength of the core, legs, and back musculature.
• Maintain proper body mechanics when lifting, sitting, and standing.
• Maintain proper body weight; being overweight puts a strain on the back muscles.
• If, after trying the suggested treatments, you are still experiencing low back pain, we recommend evaluation by one of our UPMC Sports Medicine experts.

Content on this page is for informational purposes only. If injured, please consult a physician.

There can be many reasons for neck pain. Neck pain is often a result of a motor vehicle accident or a direct blow to the top of the head. In these instances, seek immediate care from a health care professional. Other symptoms can include radiating pain down the arms and legs,  ;persistent headaches, weakness of the arms or legs, or tingling in the hands.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will likely order a series of tests to determine the cause of neck pain.

• X-rays
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a non-x-ray study that allows an evaluation of the spinal cord and nerve roots.
• CT (computed tomography) is a specialized x-ray study that allows careful evaluation of the bone and spinal canal.
• Myelography (injection of a dye or contrast material into the spinal canal) is another x-ray study that allows careful evaluation of the spinal canal and nerve roots.
• Electromyography (EMG) is a test that evaluates nerve and muscle function.

Treatment

There are many nonsurgical treatments available. A few days of rest can often calm down inflammation and reduce pain. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or acetaminophen can be helpful. Some individuals receive relief from application of a moist hot pack to relax the neck muscles; others prefer a cold pack to relieve inflammation.

Exercise and Stretching

Once a physician has evaluated you and a severe neck injury has been ruled out, receiving a comprehensive evaluation and treatment program from a physical therapist is the best approach to relieving neck pain.

If you try the suggested treatments and are still experiencing neck pain, we recommend evaluation by one of our UPMC Sports Medicine experts.

Content on this page is for informational purposes only. If injured, please consult a physician.