🧍♂️ Chronic Back Pain: Causes, Relief, and When to Seek Help – Internist PCP physician Georgetown TX
- Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Chronic back pain can wear you down — physically and emotionally. Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp spasm, or stiffness that just won’t go away, you're not alone. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, our team is here to help you understand your pain, feel empowered, and move forward.
If you’re searching for a kind and thorough internist PCP physician Georgetown TX, we’ll guide you with time, patience, and personalized care — not judgment or quick fixes.
🧠 What Causes Chronic Back Pain?
Chronic back pain is pain lasting more than 12 weeks, even after the initial cause (like an injury or strain) has healed. Common causes include:
Degenerative disc disease (age-related disc wear)
Herniated or bulging discs
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine)
Osteoarthritis
Muscle strain or poor posture
Scoliosis or spine alignment issues
Osteoporosis or compression fractures
Chronic inflammation or prior injuries
Less common but serious causes like infections or tumors
🔬 How Back Pain Works – The Pathophysiology
Your spine includes bones, discs, joints, ligaments, and nerves. When any part is irritated or inflamed, it can lead to chronic pain. This pain may stay local or radiate down the legs (sciatica) depending on nerve involvement. Muscle tension often worsens the cycle.
🧪 How We Investigate Back Pain by Internist PCP physician Georgetown TX
At your visit with our primary care clinic in Georgetown TX, we start by listening — really listening — to your story. Then we may recommend:
Physical exam to assess mobility and pain triggers
X-rays to look for arthritis, scoliosis, or fractures
MRI or CT scans for herniated discs or nerve issues
Blood tests to rule out infection or inflammatory conditions
Bone density testing if osteoporosis is suspected
We guide you gently, not aggressively — only recommending tests you actually need.
💊 Medical Treatments That May Help
Depending on the cause, treatments may include:
Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
Muscle relaxants
Topical creams or patches
Oral steroids (short term, for inflammation)
Injections (corticosteroids or nerve blocks)
Physical therapy referrals
Specialist referrals, if needed (neurology, pain, or spine ortho)
You’ll always have time to ask questions — no rush, no pressure.
🏠 Home Remedies That Often Work
Gentle stretching (like yoga or daily movement)
Heat therapy (warm compresses or heating pads)
Cold packs for recent flare-ups
Anti-inflammatory foods (berries, turmeric, leafy greens)
Mindful posture habits at your desk and while driving
Short walks throughout the day to reduce stiffness
We'll help you build a routine that fits your body and lifestyle.
🌿 Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference
Weight loss, if needed, to reduce back strain
Smoking cessation, which improves spine health
Daily activity, not bedrest (motion is lotion!)
Stress management — chronic pain often worsens with anxiety
Core strengthening exercises, introduced safely
Even small improvements in daily habits can lead to big changes in how your back feels.
❓ When Should You See a Doctor?
Book a visit if:
Pain has lasted more than 4 weeks
It keeps you from daily activities or sleep
You notice numbness, tingling, or weakness
Pain radiates down one or both legs
You’ve tried home care but nothing helps
You’re worried about more serious causes (like a fracture or infection)
At our family medical clinic in Georgetown TX, we take your concerns seriously — and you’ll always be seen by a board-certified physician.
🧠 Top 10 FAQs – Chronic Back Pain
🌀 Is chronic back pain a normal part of aging?
It’s common, but it doesn’t have to be accepted as normal. Relief is possible at any age.
🌀 Do I need an MRI right away?
Not usually. We’ll guide your testing step by step, only when necessary.
🌀 Can supplements help?
Yes! Some people benefit from magnesium, turmeric, or omega-3s — we’ll help you decide what’s safe.
🌀 What if I don’t want pain medications?
That’s okay! Many people manage back pain with movement, therapy, and non-drug options.
🌀 Is surgery my only option?
No — surgery is usually a last resort. Most people improve with conservative care.
🌀 What’s the difference between back pain and sciatica?
Sciatica involves nerve pain that shoots down the leg. We’ll help tell the difference.
🌀 Can stress make back pain worse?
Yes — tension can tighten muscles and worsen inflammation.
🌀 Can I still exercise with chronic pain?
Yes, but gently. We’ll help guide safe activity and movements.
🌀 Should I rest my back completely?
No — long rest makes pain worse. Staying gently active helps healing.
🌀 How can I get started with care?
Just call us! You’ll be seen by a trusted internist PCP physician in Georgetown TX who takes time with you.
💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together
The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.
📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX
📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online
Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:
Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX
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