Back Pain

Eight out of 10 people experience back pain at some point in their life. However, some people are at a greater risk of developing back pain than others, including athletes. Nina Yaftali, DO, is a board-certified sports medicine physician who provides comprehensive care for back pain at Primary Care Sports Medicine in Agoura Hills, California. She focuses on easing the pain and finding the root cause to prevent a recurrence. For help with back pain, call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is back pain?

Back pain is any type of discomfort you feel in your back. Though your pain may affect any part of the back, most people experience pain in the lower back or lumbar spine.

About 5% to 10% of sports injuries cause lower back pain. Athletes may develop back pain from an acute injury or repetitive use. 

What are the common causes of back pain in athletes?

Active people and athletes may develop back pain from any number of causes. Some of the more common include:

Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains are common causes of back pain in athletes. A sprain occurs when you overstretch or tear a ligament, while a sprain is a tear in a muscle or tendon. 

Spondylosis

Spondylosis is a stress reaction or stress fracture that affects the bone that connects the facet joints in the spine — pars interarticularis. 

Herniated disc

Intervertebral discs separate each bone in the spine, acting as a cushion and shock absorber. A traumatic injury or degeneration from wear and tear may damage these discs, resulting in a herniated disc. A herniated disc may compress or irritate a spinal nerve, causing pain. 

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curve in the spine that develops during childhood or adolescence. Dr. Yaftali specializes in treating young athletes with scoliosis, improving spinal alignment, and preventing future problems.

You may also experience arthritis, which can cause back pain and affect mobility or your ability to play sports comfortably.

What happens during an evaluation for back pain?

Dr. Yaftali at Primary Care Sports Medicine conducts a thorough history and physical examination when you come in with back pain. Her goal is to find the root cause of your pain.

She asks detailed questions about your back pain, including the symptoms and when the pain started. She reviews your usual workout routine and medical history and performs a physical exam. Dr. Yaftali also does X-rays or ultrasound imaging to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.

What are some treatment options for back pain?

Treatment for back pain depends on the cause. Dr. Yaftali talks to you about your back pain and the underlying cause. She reviews your treatment options, and, together, you develop a plan. 

Treatment for back pain might include:

• Activity modification
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy
• Bracing
• Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections
• Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

With the right plan, Dr. Yaftali can ease your back pain and prevent future problems.

For a patient-centered approach to back pain, call Primary Care Sports Medicine or schedule an appointment online today.