It’s normal to experience some neck and back pain over the course of your life. However, if the pain isn’t going away and nothing seems to be helping, it could be a sign of a more serious condition that requires surgical intervention.

For example, if your symptoms include radiating pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in the upper or lower extremities, surgery may be the best option to get the relief you’re looking for. If your doctor has recommended you explore surgery as a potential treatment option, schedule an appointment with leading spine surgeon Dr. Sandro LaRocca at New Jersey Neck & Back Institute, P.C. He can help you take the first step toward reduced pain and better quality of life.

Causes of Neck and Back Pain

If you experience neck or back pain with symptoms spreading into your extremities, it’s most likely due to an issue with the spine. The spine is a complex structure that runs from the base of the skull all the way down to your tailbone and is made up of a series of small bones called vertebrae that help protect the spinal cord and the sensitive nerves that run through your body. Vertebrae also play a major role in mobility, from turning your head to bending and twisting your back.

Because the spine is so complex, it’s susceptible to many different injuries, diseases and conditions. Some of the most common causes of spine-related neck and back pain include:

• Age
• Injury
• Improper/heavy lifting
• Overuse
• Poor posture
• Excess body weight
• Abnormal growth, such as a tumor
• Herniated disc
• Congenital defect
• Pinched nerve
• And more…

In addition to pain, a spine problem can limit a person’s ability to do certain activities as well as cause leg pain and weakness, tingling, numbness, stiffness and a host of other symptoms. It’s important to know that you don’t have to live with these symptoms and that help is available.

Diagnosing and Treating Neck and Back Pain

If your symptoms have been an ongoing problem, it's likely that you've tried a number of treatments, from physical therapy and steroid and epidural shots to chiropractic care. However, these treatments don't help all patients, and your doctor may suggest you schedule a consultation with a surgeon like Dr. LaRocca, one of the premier spine surgeons in the Mercer County and Ocean County areas. He specializes in diagnosing and treating a range of spine issues, including herniated discs, scoliosis, fractured vertebrae and degenerative bone and joint disorders.

During your first consultation, board certified spine surgeon Dr. Sandro LaRocca will review your symptoms and run diagnostic tests to assess your condition. Once a diagnosis is made, he'll recommend the best course of action and provide compassionate, personalized care alongside a team of multidisciplinary specialists to help you find the relief you're seeking.

Say Goodbye to Pain

Tired of living with neck or back pain? Dealing with radiculopathy, drop foot or numbness and weakness? Make an appointment with spine surgeon Dr. LaRocca at New Jersey Neck & Back Institute, P.C. located at 3131 Princeton Pk, Bldg 6, Ste 106 in Lawrenceville, NJ or 1747 Hooper Ave, Ste 15 in Toms River, NJ now to get the expert care you deserve.