Addressing Back Pain in Older Adults

Many older adults experience back and joint pain that can significantly impact their quality of life. These conditions impact daily activities and may result from various age-related changes in the body. Finding ways to manage this discomfort requires professional care. Here is more information about addressing back pain in older adults:

Underlying Problems

Several conditions in older adults may contribute to back pain. Arthritis leads to inflammation of the joints. Degenerative disc disease occurs when spinal discs wear down, which reduces their cushioning effect between vertebrae. Herniated discs occur when the soft center of a disc pushes through a tear in its outer layer. Another issue is spinal stenosis, a condition where the spinal canal narrows.

Each of these issues has distinct characteristics. A herniated disc can cause sudden, sharp pain, especially after an injury. Arthritis pain may develop more gradually. The location of the pain can also provide clues about its origin. For some people, pain that shoots down the leg is a hallmark of sciatica. A doctor can perform examinations to identify the source of the discomfort.

Diagnosing the exact cause is a multi-step process. A physical exam helps a doctor assess movement and identify areas of pain. Medical history provides context for the symptoms you are experiencing. Imaging techniques, such as MRI or X-ray, provide detailed views of bones and soft tissues. This information helps in forming a management plan.

Anti-inflammatory Medications

Anti-inflammatory medications are one option for managing back and joint pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Because they reduce inflammation, they can alleviate certain types of back pain. Your doctor can recommend a suitable medication.

Spinal Injections

Spinal injections deliver medication directly to the source of pain. One standard type is an epidural steroid injection. It places anti-inflammatory medicine into the space around the spinal nerves. Different types of injections target specific areas, including:

Nerve blocks
Joint injections

Another option, primarily a diagnostic tool, is a medial branch block. The injection helps determine if a specific facet joint is the source of the pain. The relief from these injections is typically temporary, and their effects vary from person to person.

Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation uses a small device to send low levels of electricity directly to the spinal cord. Because the electrical impulses mask pain signals before they reach the brain, the sensation of pain is reduced. A trial period may precede the permanent implantation of the device, and this allows you to see how well it works for you.

Surgical Procedures

When other treatments are not effective, minimally invasive surgery might be discussed. These procedures use smaller incisions than traditional surgery, so there may be less damage to surrounding muscles and tissues. A discectomy is a procedure that removes part of a herniated disc.

Laminectomy is another procedure that removes bone to relieve pressure on nerves. These surgeries are less invasive and may result in shorter recovery times. A surgeon can explain the specifics of a recommended procedure in detail.

Treat Back and Joint Pain

Addressing back and joint pain involves exploring different paths. Your situation is unique, and management strategies will reflect that. This collaborative process allows for adjustments as your symptoms change. If you are experiencing persistent back pain, a consultation can provide clarity. To learn more about your options, schedule an appointment with a pain management specialist today.