Persistent pain
Back and neck pain is a common condition that can have a significant effect on your quality of life.
What is persistent spinal pain?
Persistent spinal pain refers to chronic discomfort that affects the back and neck, often lasting for an extended period. It can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being. At The London Spine Clinic, we understand the challenges associated with this condition and are committed to providing comprehensive care to help manage your persistent spinal pain effectively.
Symptoms
Back and neck pain can affect people of all age groups.
Treating back and neck pain involves a coordinated team of spinal specialists.
Some symptoms of persistent pain can include:
- Dull, aching pain in the back or neck: This type of pain is often persistent and can range from mild to severe. It may feel like a deep, nagging ache that doesn't go away.
- Intense and sharp pain that radiates: In some cases, persistent spinal pain can cause sharp, shooting pains that radiate to other areas of the body. For example, if the pain originates in the back, it may radiate down the legs or into the arms and hands.
- Stiffness and limited mobility: Persistent spinal pain can result in stiffness and reduced flexibility in the affected area. It may become challenging to perform daily activities that require bending, twisting, or lifting.
- Tingling or numbness: Some individuals may experience sensations of tingling or numbness in the extremities, such as the arms, hands, legs, or feet. This can be a sign of nerve involvement.
- Pain in the leg or pain in the arm: Otherwise known as sciatica
- Weakness in the muscles: Persistent spinal pain can lead to muscle weakness, making it difficult to perform certain movements or tasks that require strength.
When to see a consultant
It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medication: If your pain is severe and persists despite self-care measures, it's important to consult a medical professional for a proper evaluation.
- Pain accompanied by weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms, legs, or pelvic region: These symptoms may indicate nerve compression or damage and require immediate medical attention.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control: If you experience a loss of bladder or bowel control along with persistent spinal pain, it could be a sign of a serious underlying condition, and urgent medical assessment at your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) is necessary.
- Pain following a fall, injury, or trauma to the back or neck: If your persistent spinal pain is a result of an injury, it's important to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the extent of the damage.
- Symptoms that interfere with daily activities and quality of life: If your persistent spinal pain significantly impacts your ability to perform daily tasks or affects your overall well-being and quality of life, it's advisable to seek medical guidance for appropriate management.
Causes of Persistent Spinal Pain
Persistent spinal pain can have various underlying causes, including:
- Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or damaged discs: These conditions involve wear and tear or age-related changes in the spinal structures, leading to persistent pain and discomfort.
- Traumatic injuries to the spine, such as fractures or sprains: Accidents or traumatic events can cause damage to the spinal structures, resulting in ongoing pain.
- Muscle or ligament strains: Overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine, leading to persistent pain.
- Inflammation of the spinal joints: Conditions like ankylosing spondylitis or other forms of arthritis can cause chronic inflammation in the spinal joints, contributing to ongoing pain.
- Nerve impingement or compression: When nerves in the spine become compressed or irritated due to conditions like damaged discs or spinal stenosis, persistent pain can result.
- Medical conditions like fibromyalgia or autoimmune disorders.
