Sufferers of lower back pain often attempt to ignore their symptoms, in the hopes they’ll simply go away on their own. While patients with very mild discomfort may recover without assistance, early back pain can still indicate more serious medical issues that could dramatically impact your life. Below are a few reasons you shouldn’t ignore back pain.

3 Reasons to Seek Medical Attention for Back Pain

1. Possible Nerve Pain

In many cases, back pain is not related to the muscles or spine themselves. Depending on the location of the pain and accompanying symptoms, instability in the lower back could indicate nerve root irritation or damage, which may be irreversible. Some nerve-related medical conditions initially present with lower back pain, eventually resulting in muscle weakness, tingling or numbness.

2. Potential Bone Loss

Many older patients have an elevated risk of osteoporosis or arthritis, which may first appear in the spine. Over time, joint and bone disorders may not only cause bone loss but also affect your balance, increasing your risk of falls and the possibility of severe injuries. Early medical attention is crucial for controlling these issues, many of which can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes.

3. Many Issues Are Treatable

Even less serious causes of back pain may not heal on their own, and may only get worse. Fortunately, many issues are treatable through physical therapy, medication, massage and other non-invasive methods. Depending on the source of your discomfort, talking to a doctor may be the only way to find relief from persistent pain.

With locations in Chaska, Crystal, Delano and Maple Grove, iSpine Pain Physicians pride themselves on restoring function, renewing hope and changing lives for patients throughout the Twin Cities area. Combining cutting-edge treatments a patient-focused approach, their medical professionals will work toward providing the relief you need. Visit their website to find your nearest location, follow their Facebook for health and safety tips or call (763) 201-8191 to schedule your first appointment.