Nav Icon

Website Search

Let us help you find what you're looking for!

Back Pain

Back pain can range from simple annoying to completely debilitating. It can have a variety of causes, whether injury-related or a health condition. At SpineCare of NY, we take your back's health very seriously and are dedicated to uncovering the cause of your pain so we can tailor a treatment specifically to you.

What Is Back Pain?

Back pain is a pain in the back that takes on either a dull, aching, stabbing, sharp, or burning sensation. Back pain can occur in individuals of any age, but it is more commonly seen in older individuals or those who overuse their backs.

In The Media

SpineCare of NY has been highlighted in the media for our innovative spine care and outstanding results. Explore our features here.

Arrow Img

Forms

Download all necessary patient forms to prepare for your SpineCare of NY appointment.

Arrow Img

What Causes Back Pain?

Back pain can be caused by many factors. Back pain typically results from a muscle or ligament strain, herniated disc, tear in the disc (annular tear), arthritis, disc degeneration, fractures, spondylolisthesis (where the vertebrae slips out of place), or sometimes rheumatologic conditions.  Back pain can result from activities causing repetitive stress on the back over time, or sudden awkward movements or  lifting injuries.

Symptoms of Back Pain

Back pain can manifest through different sensations such as dull aching, burning, sharp shooting pain, or stabbing. It can occur from the upper back down to the lower back and, in many cases, can lead to pain that radiates down the legs. It is also common for certain movements like bending, lifting, twisting, walking, or standing to make your back pain feel worse.  

What Our Patients Are Saying

We are dedicated to delivering expert and compassionate care at SpineCare of NY. Check out our reviews to hear the stories of our incredible patients.  

Image
Image

Dr. Hughes and his entire staff were professional, caring and courteous. Dr. Hughes gave me great advice on how to move forward after my spine surgery. I would recommend Dr. Hughes highly. I appreciate his care and concern.

Lisa C.
star

Dr. Hughes is a genius! Though I’m still not 100%, I’m 99%. I have recommended him to several people for surgery. I don’t know if they contacted his office but if they haven’t more the fool them. He is the only surgeon for my back.

Loretta F.
star

Great experience. Doctor Hughes is an extraordinary doctor. After my surgery, I am a new person. All staff are excellent and caring. Nurses are the best, they treated me like a queen. I am truly grateful!

Doris O.
star

How Is Back Pain Diagnosed?

In order to diagnose the cause of your back pain, you must first attend a consultation with one of the expert physicians at SpineCare of NY. Your diagnosis will begin with a physical assessment in which you will be asked to describe your pain, where it occurs, and during what movement it occurs. You may be asked to do some exercises in order to replicate the pain. Further diagnostic testing, such as an X-ray. MRI, CT scan, blood work, or nerve studies may be needed to fully diagnose the condition or injury that is causing your back pain.

How Is Back Pain Treated?

Depending on the cause and severity of your back pain, both surgical and non-surgical approaches exist for treating your pain. The surgical and non-surgical teams at SpineCare of NY work closely together to develop the least invasive treatment plan possible to provide you with relief. This may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery. SpineCare of NY is affiliated with the number one ranked orthopedic hospital in the United States, Hospital for Special Surgery, where we conduct all our surgical procedures. Our surgeons are world-renowned for combining expert research with exceptionally skilled surgical techniques to perform each operation.

Schedule a Consultation

At SpineCare of NY, we are committed to providing life-changing results. We engage in continuing research to ensure we are using the most up-to-date techniques in an attempt to get it right the first time. If you are suffering from back pain that is beginning to affect your quality of life, schedule a consultation with the experts at SpineCare of NY today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can back pain be genetic?

Yes, back pain can be genetic, especially chronic back pain. Genes are associated with cartilage and bone development as well as sciatica and nerve development, which can be a component in whether an individual has back pain or not.

Can back pain cause headaches?

Yes, back and neck pain can cause headaches and are often referred to as cervicogenic headaches or tension headaches. This is due to the interconnectedness of the muscles and nerves in the spine, and the pain there can radiate to the head.

How is back pain diagnosed?

Back pain is diagnosed with a physical examination, a discussion about your medical history and symptoms, and additional tests like an X-ray, MRI, or EMG. The type of testing and exam done will depend on the severity of the pain and the suspected cause.

How is back pain treated?

Back pain can be treated with a variety of methods that depend on the severity of the symptoms, the cause, your medical history, and whether it’s acute or chronic pain. Some treatment options include self-care, physical therapy, exercise, pain medication, and corticosteroid injections.

Who should I see for back pain in Manhattan?

Our team at SpineCare of NY is the go-to office for patients in Manhattan who are struggling with back pain. Dr. Cammisa, Dr. Sama, and Dr. Hughes have the expertise and experience needed to help you finally find relief from back pain.

When is back pain a concern?

Back pain is typically a concern when it is persistent, becomes worse, or when it’s associated with neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness. It can also be a problem when it occurs after an injury or trauma or when the patient has a history of cancer or is immuno-compromised.

What causes back pain?

Back pain can have a wide variety of causes, including muscle strains, poor posture, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, injuries, fractures, sciatica, and pinched nerves.

Can back pain affect other parts of my body?

Back pain can affect other parts of the body. When a nerve is pinched, the pain can travel from the back down the nerve pathways to other parts of the body. Sciatica is a common pain in the lower back that can radiate to the leg down the sciatic nerve.

Can severe back pain be treated without surgery?

Severe back pain can be treated without surgery. There are multiple nonsurgical options including pain relievers and muscle relaxers, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and steroid injections.

How do I know if I need surgery for back pain?

Whether you need surgery for back pain or not can depend on the cause of the back pain, the severity of the symptoms, and how much the pain is affecting your everyday life. Surgery can often be a last resort when nonsurgical options have not been effective.

Get In Touch

SpineCare of NY is located at 523 East 72nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10021.

If you are an existing or past patient, please use the Patient Portal to communicate with us.

Please note: This form is for NEW patients only and should be used strictly for administrative messages. DO NOT TRANSMIT personal, confidential health information, i.e., your insurance ID #. Thank you.