How to Tell Back Muscle Pain from Disc Pain
Category: Back Pain, Spine Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Back pain is complex and sometimes difficult to accurately diagnose since there are so many potential causes of the pain itself. Two of the most common sources of back pain are spinal discs and the muscles in the back. In this article we will discuss the differences and similarities between spinal disc pain and muscle pain to help you differentiate between the two.
Spinal Disc Pain
The spinal discs can cause a lot of trouble in the spine for various reasons. Bulging discs, disc fractures, and osteoarthritis can all cause pain in the discs. Back pain from a spinal disc can include any of the following symptoms:
- Tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation in the low back or extremities.
- Back pain that can be mild or severe.
- Bladder & bowel control issues.
Disc conditions and injuries are quite serious and should be treated as soon as possible following a diagnosis.
Muscle Back Pain
As opposed to pain from a spinal disc, back pain that is muscle-related generally does not include any loss of feeling, tingling, or numbness. Muscle pain can be the result of a sprain, strain, or bruise. If you see any bruising or discoloration in the back, this is a good indication that the underlying issue is muscle-related.
The most important thing when it comes to back pain is making the correct diagnosis. Treatment is directly tied to the underlying issue, and if you don’t have a correct diagnosis, the prescribed treatment option is unlikely to be effective.
No matter what the underlying cause of your back pain, there are treatment methods that can help reduce your pain. Whether your pain is related to a spinal disc, or muscle injury/condition, you can find a treatment plan that works for you. Contact a back pain specialist to see what your options are and get back on the path to a pain free life.
