Back Pain: Causes and Potential Treatments
Living with back pain can be exhausting – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether it’s a dull ache after a long day, sharp shooting pains down the leg, or stiffness that makes simple movements difficult, persistent back pain can affect every part of your life. It can keep you from enjoying hobbies, make work more challenging, and even disturb your sleep.
The good news is that back pain is treatable – and the sooner you seek help, the sooner you can get back to living without it dominating your day.
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Common Causes of Back Pain
Back pain can come from many sources, and understanding the cause is the first step to finding relief. Some of the most common include:
Muscle or ligament strain – Often from heavy lifting, awkward movements, or poor posture over time.
Herniated or bulging discs – When the cushioning discs between your vertebrae press on nerves, causing pain or sciatica.
Arthritis – Wear and tear in the joints of the spine can cause stiffness and pain, particularly as we age.
Nerve compression – Such as sciatica, where the sciatic nerve is irritated or trapped.
Spinal conditions – Including scoliosis or spinal stenosis, which can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
While back pain is common, persistent symptoms shouldn’t be ignored – especially if they are worsening or affecting your daily life.
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When Back Pain Becomes Chronic
Back pain is considered chronic when it lasts for more than 12 weeks, even after initial treatment or rest. Chronic pain often has a mix of physical and nerve-related causes, and it can be more complex to treat. That’s why seeing a back pain specialist in Yorkshire who can provide a detailed diagnosis is so important.
At York Pain Group, consultations include a thorough review of your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history, often supported by scans or investigations if needed. This allows us to create a treatment plan that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.
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Treatment Options for Back Pain
The right treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and how the pain affects your life. Private pain specialists can offer a wide range of options, including:
Targeted injections – Such as facet joint injections or nerve blocks, which can reduce inflammation and interrupt pain signals.
Radiofrequency treatments – A minimally invasive procedure that can provide longer-term relief by gently targeting the nerves causing pain.
Medication management – Tailored advice on safe and effective medicines for pain control.
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation – To strengthen muscles, improve posture, and support recovery.
Pain education and self-management strategies – Helping you take control and reduce flare-ups in the future.
The aim is not only to relieve pain but also to restore mobility, function, and quality of life.
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Why Early Specialist Care Matters
Many people live with back pain far longer than they need to, hoping it will improve on its own. While some discomfort may settle, persistent pain often needs a professional approach. Seeing a Yorkshire back pain specialist early can:
Prevent the pain from becoming chronic
Reduce reliance on medication
Get you back to work, hobbies, and daily activities sooner
By addressing the cause directly, you can avoid a cycle of flare-ups and worsening symptoms.
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Take the First Step Towards Relief
If you’ve been struggling with back pain – whether it’s recent or something you’ve lived with for years – you don’t have to accept it as your “new normal.” With the right assessment and targeted treatment, many people experience significant improvement, often faster than they expect.
If you're living with persistent pain and want expert help without the wait, book a private consultation with York Pain Group today. Our consultant-led team will work with you to understand your pain, provide a clear diagnosis, and offer the most effective treatment options to get you moving again.
