Back Pain Specialist

The Belinga Clinic Our Services Back Pain
The Belinga Clinic - - Neurologist

The Belinga Clinic

Neurologists located in Fort Smith, AR

Back pain affects 8 out of 10 people at some point in their lives. Both acute and chronic back pain can interfere with your ability to perform daily tasks, exercise, and participate in the activities you enjoy. Steve-Felix Belinga, MD, and his compassionate team at The Belinga Clinic have the skills and training to address all types of back pain. To schedule an evaluation for back pain with Dr. Belinga, call the office in Fort Smith, Arkansas, or request an appointment online today.

Back Pain Q & A

What causes back pain?

Upper and lower back pain and neck pain can arise due to a variety of factors. Injuries, overuse syndromes, spinal issues, and conditions that affect the internal organs can also lead to back pain. Anyone can experience back pain, including children.

Dr. Belinga frequently sees patients for back pain due to the following:

  • Muscle strains
  • Ligament sprains
  • Arthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Herniated discs

Risk factors for developing back pain include older age, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, and depression. Back pain is one of the most common reasons that people stay home from work. Chronic back pain can have a devastating impact on your quality of life over time.

How does a doctor diagnose back pain?

To identify the exact cause of your back pain, Dr. Belinga begins by reviewing your health history and asking detailed questions about your symptoms. He conducts a physical exam, and he may ask you to perform some movements to analyze your posture, movement, and musculoskeletal alignment. 

He may also order blood work or diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI.

How is back pain treated?

Treatment depends on the exact cause of your back pain, your personal health history, your lifestyle, and other factors. Dr. Belinga designs a custom treatment plan to address your back and/or neck pain. 

Based on your individual needs, your plan might include: 

  • Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication
  • Hot and cold therapy
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Physical therapy
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Nerve blocks
  • Implanted nerve stimulation devices

A healthy diet, physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can help when it comes to back pain. Losing weight, working with a therapist to address your depression, and mindfulness techniques can also improve back pain symptoms.

Dr. Belinga takes a conservative approach to treating back pain. With effective management and time, many patients make a full recovery. However, some cases of back pain may require surgery to resolve.

Don’t let back pain stop you from living a full, active life. To find relief from acute or chronic back pain, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Belinga. Call The Belinga Clinic today, or make an appointment online. 

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