Lower back pain affects millions of people every year. About 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a wide variety of injuries and medical conditions, including anything from muscle strain and poor posture to more complex issues like herniated discs and degenerative disc disease.

Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo is a leading spine specialist at the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, which has multiple locations in the New York metro area. As a board-certified and fellowship-trained spinal surgeon, he offers a comprehensive approach to treating lower back pain at his practice. His multidisciplinary approach combines the latest treatments and techniques to help patients find relief and regain their quality of life.

Causes of Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain often results from issues with the spine, muscles, or nerves. It can also be caused by a constellation of factors, such as trauma, aging, or conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or degenerative disc disease.

This pain can feel anywhere from a dull ache to severe pain that radiates throughout the body, affects daily activities, and makes it difficult to walk and get around. Dr. Okubadejo emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and personalized care to address all causes of lower back pain. He strives to make sure that each patient receives the right treatment based on their specific condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense against lower back pain. Dr. Okubadejo’s approach incorporates various therapies designed to alleviate pain and restore function. These treatments are available at the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care or the practice’s Wellness Center in Englewood, New Jersey.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a key non-surgical intervention that helps patients strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility. It can also relieve pain, restore normal movement, and prevent future injuries.

A carefully designed program may include exercises to improve strength and stability, especially in the core muscles, which play a critical role in spinal health.

Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections are typically used for patients suffering from chronic pain due to conditions like spinal stenosis or herniated discs. Epidural injections are designed to reduce inflammation around the spinal cord and nerve roots. The injections can often provide temporary pain relief and may make it easier for patients to engage in physical therapy or other rehabilitation methods.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

When non-surgical treatments aren’t working as hoped, Dr. Okubadejo offers minimally invasive procedures to treat more complex conditions. These procedures are designed to treat the underlying causes of pain with less risk, shorter recovery times, and reduced scarring compared to traditional surgery.

One such procedure is spinal decompression, which can help alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves caused by conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis. During the procedure, small incisions are made, and specialized instruments are used to remove or reposition damaged tissue. Spinal decompression is especially useful for people who have tried physical therapy and injections but still experience significant discomfort.

In addition to spinal decompression, Dr. Okubadejo may recommend a discectomy. This minimally invasive surgery involves removing a portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve root. Discectomy can be an effective option for those with severe nerve compression who do not respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy or injections. This surgical technique can help improve mobility and significantly reduce pain.

For patients who need more structural intervention, spinal fusion may be an option. This procedure fuses two or more vertebrae together to eliminate abnormal movement that causes pain. Dr. Okubadejo uses the latest minimally invasive techniques for spinal fusion to reduce blood loss, shorten hospital stays, and promote faster recovery times compared to traditional spinal surgery. The goal of spinal fusion is to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain, allowing the patient to return to normal activities as soon as possible.

Comprehensive Care and Preventative Measures

While Dr. Okubadejo offers advanced medical treatments to manage lower back pain, he also strives to help his patients understand the importance of lifestyle changes in maintaining long-term spinal health.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the most important lifestyle changes recommended by the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care. A sedentary lifestyle can worsen lower back pain, weakening the muscles that support the spine and placing additional strain on the back.

Dr. Okubadejo often incorporates core strengthening exercises into treatment plans, emphasizing how strengthening the muscles of the abdomen and lower back can provide better support for the spine and reduce pain. He’s also developed a dynamic exercise tool, the 360 CoreBoard, to help people strengthen their core without straining their lower back. Cardio and other physical activity are also encouraged as they promote flexibility and circulation.

Weight Management

Carrying excess weight can place undue pressure on the spine and contribute to pain. A healthier diet and regular exercise can help patients achieve and maintain an ideal weight that minimizes strain on the back.

Posture Correction

Poor posture can strain the spine, so Dr. Okubadejo educates patients on how to adopt better posture habits throughout the day. These tips may include techniques like sitting with proper lumbar support, using ergonomic furniture, and standing and stretching regularly when working for long periods.