Are you one of the Oklahoma citizens suffering from back pain? If so, you're not alone. It is one of the most common medical complaints, affecting a number of adults at some point in their lives. Whether you're dealing with acute or subacute pain, it can be debilitating and interfere with your daily life. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage your pain and get back to feeling like yourself again.

Learning More About Back Pain

Acute Pain

• It typically lasts less than four weeks.

• A sudden fall or lifting something heavy is the cause of acute pain.

• Patients are likely to experience muscle spasms or stiffness.

• Treatment options include rest, ice, heat, over-the-counter pain medications and physical therapy.

Subacute Pain

• It lasts between four and 12 weeks.

• A sprain, strain or herniated disc can cause this pain.

• It is more persistent than acute back pain.

• Treatment options include exercise, physical therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care and acupuncture.

Discogram: Recognizing the Most Effective Diagnostic Test

If you're experiencing severe pain in your back, determining the source of the pain is crucial to developing an effective treatment plan. A discogram is one diagnostic tool that can identify the cause and source of pain.

• The test involves injecting a dye into the spine's discs to identify any abnormalities or damage that may be causing pain. Doctors use local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The dye used during the procedure allows the physician to see the internal structures of the disc on an X-ray, CT or MRI scan.

• The discogram can help determine if surgery is necessary and which disc(s) repair or replacement can ease the symptoms. A surgeon can perform a more targeted and effective procedure by pinpointing the exact location of the damaged disc. That can reduce the risk of complications and improve the chances of a successful outcome.

• Additionally, a discogram can help avoid unnecessary surgery by ruling out discs that are not causing the pain. It will save the patient time, money and potential risks associated with surgery.

Knowing More About Medical Treatment

• Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

• Muscle relaxants can help relieve muscle spasms.

• Prescription pain medications may be necessary in some cases.

• Cortisone injections can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Non-drug Treatments: How Does It Work?

• Physical therapy can help improve mobility and reduce pain.

• Chiropractic care is another effective treatment option to realign the spine and relieve nerve pressure.

• Acupuncture can help stimulate the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

• Massage therapy can help relax muscles and relieve tension.

Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers: We Help Alleviate Your Pain

Are you tired of living with chronic back pain in Oklahoma City? Is it affecting your daily life and preventing you from doing the things you love? Don't suffer in silence any longer.

"Back pain is not a lifestyle; it's a hindrance. Take control and get back to doing what you love." - Unknown.

At Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers, our team of pain management specialists helps patients find relief from chronic pain conditions. Our comprehensive approach includes both medication and non-medication treatments, as well as minimally invasive procedures when necessary. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms and our goal is to help you get back to living your life pain-free.

Our experienced team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need medication management, physical therapy or a minimally invasive procedure, we have the expertise and resources to help you find relief.

Don't let chronic pain hold you back any longer. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a better quality of life.

**Disclaimer: This blog post does not establish terms of a doctor-patient relationship and is not intended to be taken as a doctor's advice.