Back Pain

Alexis Tracy, DO, of Somerset Spine & Nerve in Medford, Oregon, specializes in treating chronic back pain caused by conditions like sciatica and spinal stenosis. Dr. Tracy offers the latest advancements in minimally invasive spine surgery to remove damaged portions of the spine, repair joints, and relieve pressure on surrounding nerves. If you’re experiencing persistent back pain that isn’t improving, schedule a consultation with Somerset Spine & Nerve by phone or request one online today.

What causes back pain?

There are several reasons why you may experience back pain. Acute back pain often results from muscle fatigue, sprains, or strains due to overuse.

Persistent back pain may stem from trauma to the structures of your back or from degenerative changes in your spine.

Some of the most common causes of chronic back pain include:

• Tumors

• Arthritis

• Sciatica

• Fractures

• Osteoporosis

• Spinal stenosis

• Herniated discs

• Degenerative disc disease

Chronic back pain may also result from spinal deformities or severe trauma, such as a fall, auto accident, or sports injury.

If you experience back pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter medications, don’t delay a diagnostic evaluation at Somerset Spine & Nerve.

How is back pain diagnosed?

Diagnosing chronic back pain begins with a review of your medical history, lifestyle, and occupation. Your Somerset Spine & Nerve provider will also ask about the location and severity of your pain to better understand its cause, followed by a physical exam to assess for spinal curvature or other deformities.

In many cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans help the Somerset team evaluate spinal structures and identify issues such as herniated discs, nerve compression, spinal stenosis, or joint damage from arthritis or osteoporosis.

Will I need surgery for chronic back pain?

Surgery is typically considered a last resort for treating chronic back pain. Before exploring surgical options, most patients benefit from conservative treatments such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, PRP injections, and physical therapy.

Dr. Tracy specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques that use small incisions to correct spinal abnormalities and injuries.

If you have a herniated disc, surgery may involve removing part or all of the damaged disc to relieve pressure on nearby nerves. This can also reduce symptoms like tingling and numbness that radiate through the back, neck, arms, or legs.

For spinal stenosis, Dr. Tracy may remove a portion of bone to widen the spinal canal, creating more space for nerves and relieving compression-related pain.

If chronic back pain is limiting your mobility or quality of life, schedule a consultation with Somerset Spine & Nerve by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.