(Andrew Manuel Nava/ John Hopkins Medicine) — Back pain is considered chronic if it lasts three months or longer. It can come and go, often bringing temporary relief, followed by frustration. Dealing with chronic back pain can be especially trying if you don’t know the cause.
Back pain rehabilitation specialist Andrew Nava, M.D. , offers insights into common chronic back pain causes and nonsurgical treatment options—and advises not to give up hope.
In some cases, it’s difficult to pinpoint the cause of chronic back pain. “If your doctor has exhausted all diagnostic options, it’s time to seek a second opinion from a back pain specialist,” recommends Nava. It’s important not to make rushed decisions or undergo extensive medical procedures until the origin of the pain is found. Not only may they not help; they could make the pain worse, warns Nava. (…)