Back Pain: Reasons, Diagnosis & Treatment
Dr. Abhishek Saxena
Published on January 20, 2026
Back Pain: Reasons, Diagnosis & Treatment | Dr. Abhishek Saxena
As an orthopedic doctor in Ajmer, I see patients every day struggling with back pain. It's one of the most common reasons people visit our clinic. Back pain can range from a mild, nagging ache to severe, debilitating pain. Understanding its causes and getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment and lasting relief.
What is Back Pain?
Back pain refers to discomfort or pain felt anywhere along the spine, from the neck (cervical) down to the lower back (lumbar). The lower back is most commonly affected because it bears most of your body's weight and stress. If you're experiencing persistent discomfort, it's crucial to consult a spine specialist in Ajmer for a proper evaluation.
Common Characteristics of Back Pain:
- Location: Can be centralized or radiate to buttocks/legs
- Type: Dull ache, sharp stab, burning, or electric shock-like
- Duration: Acute (less than 6 weeks), Subacute (6-12 weeks), Chronic (more than 12 weeks)
- Triggers: Lifting, bending, sitting for long periods, or sometimes no clear trigger
Common Types of Back Pain
Understanding the type of back pain you have helps guide treatment. For a detailed look, read our guide on back pain vs spine pain.
| Type | Description | Common Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Pain | Pain from muscles, ligaments, joints, or bones. | Strain, arthritis, disc degeneration. |
| Radicular Pain | Sharp, shooting pain radiating from the spine. | Nerve compression, herniated disc (sciatica). |
| Referred Pain | Pain felt in the back but originating elsewhere. | Kidney stones, pelvic issues, aortic aneurysm. |
| Inflammatory Pain | Stiffness and pain, often worse in the morning. | Conditions like ankylosing spondylitis. |
Top Reasons for Back Pain
1. Muscle or Ligament Strain
This is the most common cause. Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. This is a frequent issue we treat, often related to sports injuries or occupational strain.
2. Bulging or Herniated Discs
Discs act as cushions between your spine's vertebrae. When they bulge or rupture (herniate), they can press on a nerve, causing pain. This can lead to conditions like sciatica.
3. Arthritis
Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord. Learn more about joint pain types and treatments.
4. Osteoporosis
Your spine's vertebrae can develop painful fractures if your bones become porous and brittle. Maintaining bone health after 40 is key to prevention.
5. Poor Posture & Ergonomics
Slouching at a desk, improper lifting, and sleeping on a poor mattress can chronically stress the spine.
6. Underlying Medical Conditions
Less commonly, back pain can signal infections, tumors, or problems with organs like the kidneys.
How We Diagnose Back Pain in Ajmer
At our orthopedic clinic in Ajmer, diagnosis starts with a thorough evaluation:
- Medical History & Physical Exam: We discuss your symptoms, activity, and health history, then check your posture, range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength.
- Imaging Tests:
- X-ray: Shows bone alignment, arthritis, fractures.
- MRI or CT Scan: Provides detailed images of discs, muscles, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels.
- Nerve Studies (EMG): Measures electrical impulses produced by nerves to identify compression from herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
- Blood Tests: Rule out infections or systemic conditions like arthritis.
Treatment Options at Our Ajmer Clinic
Treatment depends entirely on the diagnosis. We use a step-wise approach, starting with conservative methods.
1. Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatments
- Medication: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or nerve-pain medications.
- Physical Therapy: The cornerstone of back pain treatment. Includes stretching, strengthening core muscles, and improving posture. Explore our recommended healthy joint exercises.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, ergonomic adjustments, and activity modification. Follow our tips on how to prevent lower back pain.
- Interventional Pain Management: Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care may help some patients. We also discuss natural pain relief methods.
2. Advanced & Surgical Treatments
If conservative measures fail, we consider advanced options:
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Like arthroscopy for certain spinal conditions.
- Discectomy: Removal of a herniated disc portion pressing on a nerve.
- Laminectomy: Removal of bone (lamina) to create space and relieve nerve pressure.
- Spinal Fusion: Joining two vertebrae to eliminate painful movement.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: Replacing a damaged disc with an artificial one.
Our clinic uses modern orthopedic treatments for faster recovery.
Red Flags: When to See a Doctor Immediately
Most back pain improves with self-care. However, seek immediate medical attention at our emergency orthopedic care if you have:
- Pain following a major injury like a fall or car accident.
- New bowel or bladder problems (incontinence or retention).
- Fever along with back pain.
- Severe, constant pain that worsens at night.
- Unexplained weight loss with back pain.
- Pain that radiates down both legs, especially with weakness/numbness.
- History of cancer or osteoporosis with new back pain.
Prevention is Key: Tips for a Healthy Back
Exercise Regularly
Focus on core-strengthening (abdominals and back) and flexibility exercises. Check our nutrition and fitness guide for a holistic approach.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight, especially around the midsection, stresses the lower back.
Lift Properly
Use your legs, keep the object close to your body, and don't twist while lifting.
Mind Your Posture
- Sitting: Choose a chair with good lumbar support. Keep knees and hips level.
- Standing: Keep your weight balanced on both feet. Avoid high heels for long periods.
- Sleeping: Use a mattress that supports spinal alignment. Sleep on your side with knees bent.
Nourish Your Spine
Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Discover foods that strengthen bones and joints.
Quit Smoking
Smoking reduces blood flow to the spine, accelerating disc degeneration.
Why Choose Our Ajmer Clinic for Back Pain?
At our center, we offer comprehensive care:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Using advanced imaging and clinical expertise.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: From physiotherapy to advanced arthroscopy surgery.
- Multidisciplinary Team: Including orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and pain specialists.
- Focus on Prevention & Education: We empower you with knowledge to manage your spine health. Read our guide on preventing common problems.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Abhishek Saxena
Back pain is complex, but it is often manageable and treatable. The most important step is to not ignore persistent pain. Early intervention with the right specialist can prevent a simple issue from becoming a chronic problem. Whether your pain is from a muscle strain, a disc issue, or arthritis, we have the expertise and top orthopedic treatments in Ajmer to help you find relief and regain your quality of life.
Don't let back pain hold you back. Book a consultation with us to start your journey toward a pain-free back.
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