What Causes Chronic Back Pain and How to Treat It
Chronic back pain can make everyday life feel like an uphill battle — and you’re not alone. Millions of people in Northern California live with persistent back pain that just won’t go away. The good news? Understanding what’s causing it is the first step to finding real relief.
What Is Chronic Back Pain?
Unlike a pulled muscle that heals in a few days, chronic back pain lasts 12 weeks or longer, even after the original injury or strain has healed. It can come and go or linger constantly — either way, it’s frustrating and exhausting.
Common Causes of Chronic Back Pain
So, what’s behind that lingering ache or sharp pain? Some of the most common causes include:
Herniated or Bulging Discs: When the soft cushions between your spine’s bones slip or rupture, they can press on nearby nerves.
Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, spinal discs can wear down, leading to pain and stiffness.
Spinal Stenosis: This narrowing of the spinal canal can squeeze the nerves and cause pain that radiates to your legs.
Injuries or Accidents: Car accidents, sports injuries, or heavy lifting can cause damage that never fully heals.
Poor Posture or Repetitive Strain: Desk jobs, slouching, and repetitive movements can put ongoing stress on your back.
When Should You See a Pain Specialist?
Back pain that sticks around for more than a few weeks should never be ignored. You should see a pain specialist if you:
Rely on pain medications daily
Feel numbness or tingling in your legs
Struggle to sleep or work because of pain
Notice weakness in your arms or legs
Haven’t found relief from basic treatments
Treatment Options for Chronic Back Pain
At NorCal Pain Treatment Center, we know every patient’s pain is unique — and so is the solution. We offer a wide range of advanced treatment options, including:
Physical Therapy: Custom exercise programs to strengthen your back and improve posture.
Epidural Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and relieve nerve pain.
Nerve Blocks: Target the exact nerve causing your pain.
Spinal Cord Stimulation: A tiny device that disrupts pain signals before they reach your brain.
Regenerative Medicine: Cutting-edge therapies to help the body heal itself.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you’re tired of living with back pain that holds you back, you don’t have to tough it out alone.
The specialists at NorCal Pain Treatment Center are here to help you understand your pain and find real solutions — so you can get back to living your life.
📞 Ready to feel better? Contact us today or schedule an appointment online to speak with a pain management expert near you.