Back pain is one of the most common medical complaints, but not all back pain is the same. Treating the wrong type of pain can waste time, prolong suffering, and even worsen the condition. The two main types of back pain—inflammatory and degenerative—have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding these differences is essential for effective relief
What is Inflammatory Back Pain?
Inflammatory back pain occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints in the spine. Conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, spondyloarthropathy, and psoriatic arthritis are common culprits.
Key Signs of Inflammatory Back Pain:
- Pain is worse in the morning or after long periods of rest.
- Pain improves with movement or light activity.
- Typically starts in individuals under the age of 40.
This type of pain stems from internal inflammation rather than wear and tear on the spine.
Treatment for Inflammatory Back Pain:
Managing inflammatory back pain focuses on reducing inflammation.
- Medications: Disease-modifying drugs and biologics can significantly reduce immune responses.
- Exercise: Low-impact activities like yoga or swimming improve flexibility.
- Diet: Anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3s and antioxidants can help reduce symptoms.
For optimal care, consult a rheumatologist who can provide advanced treatment options.
What is Degenerative Back Pain?
Degenerative back pain is caused by wear and tear on the spine due to aging or injury. Over time, the spine’s joints and discs break down, leading to discomfort and instability.
Key Signs of Degenerative Back Pain:
- Pain worsens with activity and improves with rest.
- More common in individuals over 50.
- Often feels like a dull ache that sharpens with specific movements.
This type of pain reflects the gradual breakdown of the spine’s structures.
Treatment for Degenerative Back Pain:
The goal of treatment is to strengthen the spine and alleviate strain:
- Physical Therapy: Focuses on core strength and posture improvement.
- Regenerative Medicine: Techniques like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), prolotherapy, or bone marrow concentrate strengthen damaged tissues without relying on steroids.
How to Differentiate Between the Two
Here are three key ways to distinguish between inflammatory and degenerative back pain:
- Timing of Pain: Inflammatory pain is worse in the morning, while degenerative pain intensifies with movement during the day.
- Duration: Inflammatory pain persists for months, while degenerative pain fluctuates with activity levels.
- Age Factor: Inflammatory pain typically starts before age 40, whereas degenerative pain develops later in life.
Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Treating back pain incorrectly can slow recovery and worsen the condition. For example:
- Using immune-suppressing medications for degenerative pain is ineffective.
- Ignoring inflammatory back pain can lead to long-term joint damage.
The first step to effective relief is getting the correct diagnosis.
Find Relief with Expert Care
At Chicago Arthritis and Regenerative Medicine, Dr. Siddharth Tambar specializes in advanced, non-surgical treatments for both types of back pain. By tailoring solutions to your unique needs, we can help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.
If you’re struggling with back pain, consult a specialist to find the right treatment approach.
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