Stop Living with Chronic Back Pain: When to Consult a Top Atlanta Neurosurgeon

An occasionally sore back is one thing, but pain that sticks around for weeks or keeps coming back can interfere with your sleep, work, exercise, and the activities you enjoy. 

At Max Steuer, MD, in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Steuer and Carter Cooper, PA-C, work with you to get to the bottom of your persistent spine problem. You don’t necessarily need surgery just because you experience chronic back pain. 

Here at our Meridian Mark office, we start with a thorough evaluation to understand your symptoms and determine the best treatment options for your needs.

When is back pain considered chronic

Back pain can have many causes, from muscle strain to conditions affecting your spinal discs, nerves, or vertebrae. Pain that continues for several weeks or repeatedly returns may be considered chronic. Reach out to Dr. Steuer if your pain:

• Continues despite rest or conservative treatments
• Interferes with work, hobbies, or sleep
• Travels into your legs, arms, or other parts of your body
• Is accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness

These symptoms don’t automatically mean you need surgery, but don’t ignore them. An accurate diagnosis can help you understand what’s happening and prevent you from continuing to treat the wrong problem. 

Why see a neurosurgeon for back pain?

A neurosurgeon specializes in conditions involving the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Because back pain may involve a herniated disc, pinched nerve, or another structural problem in your spine, Dr. Steuer can provide valuable insight into nonsurgical and surgical treatment options.

During your appointment, you have an opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and how your pain affects your daily life. Imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI studies may also help identify problems involving your discs, joints, or spinal nerves.

Treatment doesn’t always mean surgery

One of the most common concerns our patients have when they’re referred to us is that we suggest surgery as the first option. Depending on your diagnosis and symptoms, we may begin with more conservative approaches that relieve your pain and improve your overall function.

Your custom plan may include:

• Physical therapy
• Targeted exercises
• Medication
• Minimally invasive procedures

If conservative treatments don’t provide adequate relief, and your condition warrants surgery, we discuss which procedure may be appropriate, depending on your pain level, overall health, and goals. 

Don’t let pain have the final say

Living with chronic back pain can change the way you live. You may stop taking walks, avoid picking up your grandchildren, give up favorite activities, or plan your days around your pain.

If persistent back pain limits your life, an expert evaluation can provide answers and help determine next steps.

Schedule a consultation with Max Steuer, MD, today to explore your treatment options and find the right one to put an end to your chronic pain.