Low back pain is one of the most common medical complaints, affecting people of all ages and lifestyles. Whether it’s a dull ache, stiffness, or sharp pain radiating down the legs, back pain can interfere with daily activities and reduce quality of life. At the Neurology and Pain Management Clinic (NPMC), Dr Gautam Arora (MBBS, MD, DM) provides expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options to help patients find lasting relief from back pain.
Common Causes of Low Back Pain
Low back pain can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from muscle strain to nerve compression. Understanding the underlying reason is key to effective treatment.
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Muscle or Ligament Strain:
Overstretching or tearing muscles due to heavy lifting, poor posture, or sudden movements can cause acute pain and stiffness. -
Herniated or Bulging Discs:
The spinal discs act as cushions between vertebrae. When a disc slips or bulges, it can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates to the legs (sciatica). -
Degenerative Disc Disease:
With age, spinal discs lose flexibility and hydration, making them more prone to injury and chronic discomfort. -
Arthritis and Spinal Stenosis:
Conditions like osteoarthritis can lead to the narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis), which compresses nerves and causes persistent pain or weakness. -
Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle:
Prolonged sitting, improper ergonomics, and lack of core strength often lead to chronic back strain and pain. -
Injuries or Accidents:
Falls, sports injuries, or whiplash can result in soft tissue damage or misalignment of the spine.
Diagnosis at NPMC
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful treatment. At NPMC, Dr Gautam Arora uses a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, or X-rays, and nerve conduction tests to identify the root cause of back pain. This comprehensive approach ensures that each patient receives a customised treatment plan based on their condition.
Treatment Options for Low Back Pain
Dr Gautam Arora focuses on a multidisciplinary approach that combines medical expertise with minimally invasive procedures for effective pain management.
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Medication Management: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs help control symptoms.
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Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and enhance flexibility.
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Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted injections reduce inflammation and relieve nerve compression, offering long-term relief.
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Nerve Blocks and Radiofrequency Ablation: Advanced procedures used to interrupt pain signals from specific nerves.
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Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on ergonomics, weight management, and regular exercise to prevent recurrence.
When to Consult a Specialist
If your back pain persists for more than a few weeks, worsens with movement, or is accompanied by leg weakness or numbness, it’s crucial to consult a neurologist. Ignoring symptoms may lead to chronic conditions that are harder to treat.
At the Neurology and Pain Management Clinic (NPMC), Dr Gautam Arora (MBBS, MD, DM) offers compassionate and comprehensive care to help patients overcome back pain and restore mobility. His expertise in neurology and pain management ensures that every patient receives the most effective and personalised treatment for lasting relief.
