Back pain is one of the most common health complaints in the world, affecting up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives. While it may seem like a straightforward issue, back pain can manifest in many different ways, each requiring a tailored approach to treatment and relief. According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist, understanding the specific type and origin of back pain is key to developing effective treatment plans and achieving long-term relief.
With decades of experience treating patients with acute and chronic spinal pain, Dr. Sudberg has helped thousands return to active, pain-free lives. In this blog post, we explore the various manifestations of back pain and the approaches Dr. Sudberg recommends for managing each one.
The Complexity of Back Pain
“Back pain is not a one-size-fits-all condition,” says Dr. Jordan Sudberg. “It can stem from muscles, nerves, discs, joints, or even psychological stress. Treating it properly starts with a precise diagnosis.”
Some back pain presents suddenly and resolves within a few weeks. Other cases become chronic, lasting months or years and significantly interfering with daily life. Let’s examine some of the most common types of back pain—and how Dr. Sudberg recommends approaching them.
1. Muscle Strain and Sprain
This is the most frequent form of back pain and usually results from overuse, poor posture, or improper lifting. Patients often experience localized pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Dr. Sudberg’s Approach:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy to restore mobility and build core strength
- Heat therapy and non-prescription anti-inflammatory medications
“Most muscle-based back pain improves with conservative care,” says Sudberg. “But if it persists, it may be masking a deeper issue.”
2. Herniated or Bulging Discs
When one of the spinal discs becomes damaged, its inner gel-like core can protrude, irritating nearby nerves. This often leads to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness, especially in the legs (sciatica).
Dr. Sudberg’s Approach:
- MRI imaging for diagnosis
- Nonsurgical treatments like epidural steroid injections
- Targeted physical therapy for spinal stabilization
- In severe cases, referral for minimally invasive surgical evaluation
“The goal isn’t just pain relief,” explains Sudberg, “but also protecting nerve function and avoiding future disc injury.”
3. Facet Joint Pain
Facet joints are small stabilizing joints between each pair of vertebrae. As we age or after injury, these joints can become inflamed, causing localized back pain that may worsen with twisting or standing.
Dr. Jordan Sudberg’s Treatment Plan:
- Diagnostic facet joint blocks to confirm the source
- Radiofrequency ablation to disable pain-causing nerves
- Core strengthening and posture retraining
“Facet joint pain often mimics other conditions,” notes Sudberg. “That’s why pinpointing the source is so critical.”
4. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the spine to the pelvis and is a common but underdiagnosed source of lower back and buttock pain. It may worsen with prolonged sitting, standing, or climbing stairs.
Dr. Sudberg’s Solution:
- Hands-on examination and diagnostic injections
- SI joint belts or braces
- Manual therapy and stabilization exercises
“SI joint dysfunction can be mistaken for lumbar disc issues,” says Sudberg. “Accurate assessment makes all the difference.”
5. Chronic Back Pain with a Psychological Component
Sometimes, back pain persists even when no structural damage is found. In these cases, stress, anxiety, or past trauma can amplify the body’s pain signals.
Jordan Sudberg’s Holistic Approach:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness techniques
- Multidisciplinary pain management programs
- Lifestyle changes including sleep, diet, and regular movement
“The brain and body are deeply connected,” Dr. Sudberg emphasizes. “True recovery means addressing both.”
6. Spinal Stenosis
This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and weakness, especially during walking or standing.
Sudberg’s Strategy:
- Physical therapy to improve posture and spinal alignment
- Anti-inflammatory medications or epidural injections
- Referral for surgical consultation if non-invasive methods fail
“Stenosis can be disabling, but many cases respond well to conservative care,” he notes.
A Personalized Path to Healing
One of the key elements in Dr. Jordan Sudberg’s practice is personalization. No two patients experience back pain the same way, which is why he prioritizes listening, accurate diagnosis, and a multidisciplinary plan of care.
“You can’t treat what you don’t understand,” says Dr. Sudberg. “And when you understand the type of back pain, you can often resolve it—without unnecessary drugs or surgery.”
Final Thoughts
Back pain may be common, but that doesn’t mean it should be tolerated or treated generically. Whether you’re dealing with muscle strain, a herniated disc, or chronic discomfort without a clear cause, understanding the specific manifestation of your pain is the first step toward relief.
With expert guidance from professionals like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, patients are no longer stuck managing symptoms. They can uncover the root causes of their pain and build sustainable, personalized paths to recovery.
So if you’re struggling with back pain—don’t settle. With the right diagnosis and a targeted plan, relief is possible.
