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Back Pain

Back Pain services offered in Appleton, Oshkosh, North Fond du Lac, Bellevue and Green Bay, WI

Back pain is one of the most common conditions affecting adults, often caused by muscle strain, disc problems, arthritis, or nerve compression. While some episodes improve with rest and simple care, persistent back pain can limit mobility and daily function. Treatment may include physical therapy, injections, or medications,  and in advanced cases, surgical procedures to relieve pressure and restore stability.

Back Pain Q & A

What causes back pain?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care. It can result from muscle strain, disc problems, arthritis, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression. Injuries, poor posture, repetitive movements, or natural age-related changes in the spine can all contribute.

Some of the most frequent causes include:

  • Degenerative disc disease

  • Bulging or herniated discs

  • Sciatica

  • Arthritis and bone spurs

  • Spondylolisthesis (slipping vertebrae)

  • Vertebral compression fractures

  • Scoliosis

  • Spinal stenosis

These conditions may overlap—for example, degenerative disc disease can lead to herniated discs or contribute to spinal stenosis. When nerves are compressed, pain may radiate into the arms or legs, sometimes with tingling, numbness, or weakness. Sciatica is a common example of nerve compression in the lower back.

What symptoms can back pain cause?

Back pain symptoms can vary widely, but may include:

  • Aching, stiffness, or sharp pain in the neck or back

  • Pain that radiates into the arms or legs

  • Tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness (radiculopathy)

  • Pain that worsens with activity, sitting, or standing for long periods

  • Difficulty sleeping or completing daily activities

How is back pain diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis begins with a careful evaluation to identify the exact cause of pain. This may include a physical exam, medical history review, and advanced imaging studies.

Treatment often starts conservatively with:

  • Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility

  • Medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation

  • Lifestyle and activity modifications

  • Injections, such as epidural steroids or nerve blocks, for targeted relief

  • Regenerative therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), to support healing

If symptoms persist, advanced options like radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation, or surgical procedures may be considered. Surgical techniques such as discectomy, fusion, or decompression can relieve nerve pressure and restore stability.

What is the goal of treatment?

Our goal is to identify the root cause of your back pain and create a treatment plan that minimizes downtime, maximizes long-term results, and helps you return to the activities you enjoy.