World Spine Day, observed annually on October 16th, serves as a crucial reminder of the global burden of spinal pain and disability. This year's theme, "Support Your Spine," highlights the importance of adopting healthy habits and preventative measures to maintain spinal health throughout life. With low back pain affecting hundreds of millions worldwide and projected to increase, it's imperative that individuals, communities, and doctors collaborate to raise awareness and promote proactive strategies for a healthier spine.
At PSA, we understand the profound impact that spinal pain can have on individuals and society. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized care that empowers our patients to overcome their pain and reclaim their lives.
Dr. Mehta is a highly accomplished and respected interventional pain specialist with an impressive background. His training at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Cleveland Clinic has laid the foundation for his expertise in treating chronic pain.
Dr. Mehta is a leading figure in the field of pain management, combining his extensive training, research expertise, and passion for helping patients to provide innovative and effective care. His focus on personalized medicine, minimally invasive techniques, and alternative approaches to chronic pain makes him a valuable resource for those seeking relief from persistent pain conditions.
Dr. Mehta points out that while general aging and degeneration are common culprits behind spinal issues, the specific conditions and their causes can vary depending on age and lifestyle. In younger individuals, poor posture, especially the infamous "text neck," can lead to early-onset back pain. As we age, the spine naturally undergoes wear and tear, with discs losing their shock-absorbing capacity and joints becoming arthritic. It's a "time-based cascade of aging," Dr. Mehta explains.
If you’re an athlete or if degenerative diseases such as arthritis run in the family, you may also be at an increased risk for spinal conditions and back pain.
Dr. Mehta's proximity to Fort Hood in Killeen, the largest Army base in Texas, means he frequently treats patients whose active lifestyles or military service have impacted their spinal health, regardless of age.
Think of your spine as a flexible column made up of individual bones called vertebrae. Between each vertebra are discs, which act as cushions, allowing your spine to bend and twist. Over time, these discs can lose shock absorption and become less flexible, much like a jelly donut going stale. This can lead to pain and stiffness, and in some cases, a herniated disc where the inner part of the disc bulges out and presses on nerves. Additionally, the joints between the vertebrae can wear down, causing friction and discomfort.
At PSA, we understand that every pain in the body originates from the spine, and we're here to address the root causes of your discomfort.
Dr. Mehta stresses that many patients rely on "Dr. Google" and may have misconceptions about why they have back pain or spinal pain. Some common misconceptions include:
It's crucial to seek professional guidance from a qualified spine or pain management specialist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, it’s critical that patients research their caretakers and find a physician who is willing to solve the root cause, and not just slap a bandaid on the symptoms.
Thankfully, advancements in technology have revolutionized the field of spine care, offering less invasive and more effective treatment options. As Dr. Mehta often hears from patients, "What does a pain management doctor do?" The answer lies in the evolution of the field. Much like cardiology, where procedures have shifted from open-heart surgery to minimally invasive techniques, spine care has also seen a remarkable transformation. Rather than relying solely on medications or steroid injections, at PSA, we are equipped with advanced training and technology to identify and address spinal degeneration early on. This proactive approach allows us to utilize cutting-edge therapies like pain pacemakers, SCS (spinal cord stimulation), and SI joint interventions, providing targeted relief and potentially delaying or even preventing the need for more invasive procedures.
PSA offers a range of treatment options for back and spine pain, including:
Our focus is on providing lower back pain and spinal pain relief through less invasive techniques that target the underlying cause of the pain.
Dr. Mehta emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when experiencing persistent back pain or other spinal issues. PSA distinguishes itself as a comprehensive spine care provider, acting as the "PCP of the spine." Our team of specialists is trained to evaluate your condition, recommend the appropriate treatment, and guide you through your journey to recovery.
Maintaining good posture, engaging in regular stretching and exercise, and adopting healthy lifestyle choices are vital for supporting your spine. Dr. Mehta encourages everyone to be proactive about their spinal health and avoid falling into the trap of "benign neglect," where minor aches and pains are ignored until they become major problems.
Muscles form a large composition of the body, and if we don’t use them, they will eventually stop working properly and start to hurt. Simple activities like going for walks and stretching for 15-20 minutes a day can make a significant difference in maintaining a healthy spine by supporting the muscular system around the spine and throughout the body.
Additionally, avoiding “text neck” by minimizing time spent looking down at your phone and ensuring a proper workspace can reduce strain on the neck and spine.
On this World Spine Day, Dr. Mehta's message is clear: "You don't have to suffer and live in pain." Seek help early, find an individualized treatment plan, and understand the anatomy of your spine so you can make informed decisions about your health. If you're experiencing back or spine pain, don't hesitate to seek help from a qualified spine specialist near you. At PSA, we are committed to providing cutting-edge therapies and compassionate care to help you achieve a pain-free life.
Remember: Don't let pain control your life. Reach out to a PSA pain specialist near you and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.