New Jersey Back Pain

Experience advanced spine care and personalized treatment plans at our Englewood location.

Back Pain Treatment in Englewood, NJ

Back pain can arise anywhere along the spine and is one of the most common musculoskeletal issues adults face. While it frequently appears in the lower (lumbar) region, any part of the back can be affected by discomfort, stiffness, or pain that interferes with everyday tasks.

We invite you to connect with our Englewood office to learn about individualized options for reducing or resolving your back pain.

Chronic vs. Acute Pain

Back pain typically falls into two categories—chronic and acute:

Chronic Pain: Lasts longer than three months and may gradually increase in intensity. It can present as a persistent ache punctuated by sharper flare-ups.
Acute Pain: Appears suddenly, often due to an injury or strain. This type of pain can diminish within a few weeks but may evolve into a chronic condition if not properly addressed.

Whether acute or chronic, back pain can restrict mobility and diminish your overall quality of life.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Occasional back pain may stem from mild muscle strains, but more serious or prolonged episodes often involve underlying spinal conditions. Some frequently encountered causes include:

Vertebral Compression Fractures

Bones in the spine can weaken and collapse, frequently connected to osteoporosis or injury.

Spinal Osteoarthritis (Spondylosis)

Occurs when joints and discs in the spine deteriorate, potentially leading to bone spurs and nerve irritation.

Spondylolisthesis (Slippage of the Spine)

A vertebra shifts out of alignment, which can compress nerves and affect walking or standing.

Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing of the spinal canal that presses on nerves, causing discomfort and mobility issues.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Age-related disc wear that can produce stiffness, pain, or nerve compression.

Herniated Disc

When the disc's inner material protrudes through a tear in the outer layer, leading to pain, tingling, or weakness.

Spinal Curvature Issues (Scoliosis, Kyphosis, Flat Back)

Irregular alignment of the spine that can disturb posture, balance, and comfort.

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When to Consider Seeing a Specialist

Mild back pain often responds well to simple remedies like rest, gentle exercise, or over-the-counter medication. However, certain symptoms warrant prompt evaluation:

Pain that is severe or long-lasting
Sudden onset of pain after a fall or accident
Pain paired with fever or other signs of infection
Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the legs
Radiating discomfort running down the leg(s)
Bowel or bladder dysfunction
Tingling or numbness in the buttock or groin area

If you notice any of these indicators, it may be time to consult Dr. Stieber for a thorough assessment in Englewood.

Diagnosing Back Pain

An accurate diagnosis is vital for identifying the cause of your back pain and determining the most suitable course of treatment. Dr. Stieber may conduct:

Physical Examination: An evaluation of posture, range of motion, and reflexes.
Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can reveal issues with bones, discs, and soft tissues.
Blood Tests: Occasionally used if an infection or other systemic condition is suspected.
Nerve Assessments: Electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies may clarify potential nerve compression.
Nuclear Medicine Scans: Bone scans or specialized imaging may be recommended to evaluate fractures or lesions.

Treatment Approaches in Englewood, NJ

Dr. Stieber focuses on minimally invasive strategies and patient-centered care for back pain relief. Your customized treatment plan may include:

Physical Therapy

Designed to strengthen supportive muscles, enhance flexibility, and improve posture. Therapists can integrate options like heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to help alleviate pain and promote recovery.

Medication

Topical pain solutions
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Muscle relaxants
Controlled-use pain relievers (when appropriate)
Oral steroids

Surgery

If non-surgical methods are insufficient, Dr. Stieber may suggest a minimally invasive procedure. He provides a range of advanced techniques aimed at alleviating nerve compression, repairing structural damage, and restoring spinal function with minimal downtime.

Why Choose Dr. Stieber?

As a recognized leader in spine surgery and pain management, Dr. Jonathan Stieber brings over 18 years of specialized experience to patients in Englewood. His dedication to utilizing cutting-edge methods, paired with a personalized touch, has earned him numerous honors, including recognition in New York Magazine's Best Doctors and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors listings. Each patient's situation is approached with the goal of optimizing comfort, mobility, and long-term well-being.

Back Pain Frequently Asked Questions

We encourage you to reach out to our Englewood office today for a comprehensive assessment and to begin your path toward lasting relief.

Disclaimer: Individual outcomes vary, and content here is for informational purposes only.

What are some key contributors to back pain?

Common factors include muscular strains, disc herniation, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and degenerative conditions like osteoporosis.

How can I reduce my risk of back pain?

Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, following proper lifting techniques, and ensuring good posture can help minimize back pain risks.

Which treatments often help manage back pain?

A tailored plan may incorporate physical therapy, medication, pain-relieving injections, and possible surgical options, depending on each patient's exact diagnosis.

When should I seek a professional opinion?

If your back pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by unusual symptoms (e.g., numbness, leg weakness, or bowel/bladder issues), consider a consultation.

Can stress or emotional strain contribute to back discomfort?

Yes. Stress can tighten muscles and exacerbate pain, so a holistic approach often addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of back issues.

What does physical therapy entail?

Therapists focus on targeted exercises, postural training, and techniques like heat or electrical stimulation. This can improve core stability and reduce pain in the long term.

Is surgery always necessary?

Most people respond well to non-surgical management. Surgery is considered when conservative methods fail or structural issues require intervention.

Are there risks to delaying treatment for back pain?

Untreated pain can result in worsening symptoms, reduced mobility, and potential chronic conditions that become harder to resolve.

Can a personalized treatment plan help me avoid surgery?

In many situations, a combination of conservative therapies can effectively reduce pain and keep surgical options as a later consideration.

How do I get started on addressing my back pain?

An in-person evaluation is the first step. Dr. Stieber can identify the root cause of your discomfort and outline practical next steps.