Back Doctor in Anchorage, AK

Back pain can make everyday life unbearable. A back injury of any kind can prove debilitating, but the good news is that back pain can be effectively treated and relieved. The first step is visiting a physician who specializes in orthopedic spine care and treatments for back pain.

Our back specialists can provide you with the treatment options you need for symptom relief. Our surgeons provide our patients with an accurate diagnosis and the care they need to regain functionality, whether that involves surgery or nonsurgical treatment options for pain and other symptoms.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Properly diagnosing the cause of your back pain is essential to receiving the right treatment. Our specialists see patients with a wide range of conditions, including:

• Muscle or ligament strain
• Chronic spine pain
• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated discs (lumbar and cervical)
• Nerve damage
• Osteoarthritis
• Recurring muscle spasms
• Sciatica
• Scoliosis
• Spinal cord injury
• Spinal deformity
• Spinal fractures
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolysis
• Traumatic injuries
• Poor posture
• Pregnancy-related back pain
• Kidney stones

Understanding the Types and Duration of Back Pain

Acute back pain is short-term pain that typically results from an injury or accident and resolves within a few days or weeks.

Subacute back pain may last between 4 and 12 weeks and often requires a more detailed treatment plan.

Chronic back pain is pain that persists for more than 12 weeks. It can be caused by degenerative changes, muscle tension, or medical conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Back Pain

Whenever possible, our doctors and surgeons avoid surgery. We advocate for non-surgical back pain relief through options like:

• Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
• Medication, including anti-inflammatories and pain relievers
• Cortisone or epidural injections
• Bracing or stabilization techniques
• Lifestyle modifications like posture improvement, weight management, and ergonomic support

Home remedies may also help with acute back pain:

• Resting the back and avoiding aggravating movements
• Ice for reducing inflammation
• Heat to relax muscles
• Over-the-counter pain medications

Back Surgery Options

Sometimes, surgery is the best path forward — especially if your symptoms persist despite conservative treatments. Back surgery may be required for more serious conditions. Our specialists will guide you through the process and use the least invasive approach possible.

Common back surgeries include:

• Discectomy – removal of herniated disc material
• Spinal fusion – joining two or more vertebrae for stability
• Laminectomy – removal of part of the vertebra to relieve pressure
• Vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty – treatment for spinal compression fractures
• Disc replacement surgery – replacing damaged discs with synthetic ones

Our orthopedic back surgeons specialize in both minimally invasive and traditional surgery techniques. After your procedure, we’ll help develop a personalized rehabilitation and maintenance plan to prevent reinjury and support long-term healing.

When to See a Doctor for Back Pain

It’s important to consult a back specialist if you:

• Experience back pain that worsens over time
• Have neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling or leg weakness
• Can’t carry out normal daily activities
• Have suffered recent trauma (like a fall or car accident)
• Lose control of bladder or bowel function

These symptoms could indicate serious underlying issues that require prompt medical attention. Early intervention can lead to faster and more effective recovery. Don’t delay — contact us today to begin your path to relief.