Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

In all walks of life, the earlier you identify an issue and start working towards a solution, the better the outcomes tend to be, and the same is true for back conditions. Ignoring a spinal issue only tends to make symptoms worse, and they can be harder to treat once they’ve progressed to more advanced stages. There are a few specific back issues that you’ll want to identify and treat as soon as possible for best results, and we discuss those conditions in today’s blog.

Treat These Back Injuries Early

If you’re unsure what you’re dealing with or you’re wondering if you might be bothered by one of the conditions on this list, connect with a spine specialist or your primary care physician early in the process. The sooner you identify the issue and develop an individualized treatment plan, the sooner you’ll find relief while also preventing symptoms from lingering or worsening. Here’s a look at some conditions that can progress quickly if ignored.

• Bulging Disc – An untreated bulging disc can easily transition to a fully herniated disc if you’re not careful. With a bulging disc, the fibrous outer ring of the spinal disc begins to weaken, which can cause it to become misshapen and possibly compress nearby nerves. If you’re dealing with nerve pain or an isolated spot of spinal soreness or weakness, you may be dealing with the early stages of a bulging disc. Talk to your doctor about the best way to help it heal, which usually involves rest, controlled exercise and weight management.
• Scoliosis – Scoliosis involves an unnatural curvature of the spine, and it tends to be most common in juveniles going through a period of rapid growth. If your child is complaining about back pain, their shoulders seem uneven or you begin to notice a hunched or uneven appearance to their spine, bring it up to their doctor. Early intervention may be able to address the issue without surgery, but once it progresses, an extensive surgical procedure is the only way to permanently realign the vertebral column. Even if pain isn’t present, you’ll want to consult your doctor about any asymmetry you notice in their spine and posture.
• Tumors – The development of a tumor anywhere in your body warrants immediate attention, and tumors can form within the spinal canal. Their presence isn’t always obvious, which is why you should take any new symptoms seriously. Pain, muscle weakness, altered gait or difficult holding or releasing your bladder all could indicate nerve damage that may be the result of a tumor formation. Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing any new or sudden symptoms in your spine.
• Cervical Nerve Compression – Nerve compression can be uncomfortable no matter where it develops, but it can be particularly problematic if it develops in the neck region. Cervical nerve compression can lead to pain, weakness and radiating discomfort in your neck, shoulders, arms and hands, all of which can make every day uncomfortable. Untreated nerve compression can lead to further damage and the possibility of more permanent symptoms, so don’t take radiating neck discomfort lightly.

At the end of the day, take any new or chronic back symptoms seriously, and either try to overcome them by following some proactive treatment protocols on your own, or sync up with a professional who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan. To connect with a provider who can help you stop a back condition before it progresses, give Dr. Sinicropi and the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute a call today at (651) 430-3800.

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