Tony Bohannon, physical therapist at Baptist Rehab Center, treats a patient with back pain.

Lower back pain, even when caused by disk problems, usually resolves in four weeks with conservative treatment. Rest, the application of cold compresses and heat, and over-thecounter pain relievers often are all that’s needed. “Degenerated disks are among the most common causes of low back pain,” said Tony Bohannon, physical therapist at Baptist Rehab Center. Disks, made up mostly of water,

separate and cushion the spinal column’s vertebrae. “They deteriorate with age and more quickly after a trauma,” said Bohannon.

When the disk slips out of place (called a herniated or ruptured disk), it may press on nerves, resulting in pain or numbness.

In addition to the conservative treatment of rest and pain relievers, physical therapy may be prescribed to stretch and strengthen muscles supporting the spine.

More serious problems may not respond to conservative treatment. Bohannon recommends contacting a physician if you experience:

• Pain for more than four weeks.
• Pain radiating down the leg.
• Pain as the result of a fall or blow to the back.
• Numbness, weakness or tingling in the leg or foot.
• Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control.

Severe cases may require surgery. For more information on the new O-arm® technology used in surgeries, click here.

Therapists at Baptist Rehab Center focus on techniques that allow your rehabilitation to proceed at the pace you and your physician desire. Baptist Rehab Center is located at 115 Kiana Court in Paducah. For more information, phone (270) 534-1200 or visit westernbaptist.com.