Back Pain Specialist

Back pain is one of the top reasons for doctor office visits, and it's no wonder: Your back is composed of many different types of tissues and structures, including muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and bones, and back pain can occur when any of these becomes injured, irritated or inflamed. Some of the most common causes of back pain and discomfort include:

• heavy lifting

• repetitive motion

• poor posture

• anatomical or congenital issues

• disc herniation

• spine-related conditions like spondylosis or spondylolisthesis

• trauma from motor vehicle, slip-and-fall or sports-related accidents

• arthritis

• obesity

• chronic stress

Dr. Miller is skilled in performing comprehensive exams and evaluations that can help pinpoint the cause of your back pain, so you can feel confident you'll get the most appropriate treatment to relieve your symptoms.

How is back pain diagnosed?

Dr. Miller will begin with a complete medical history and a discussion of your symptoms, including when they first occurred, followed by a physical exam which may include gentle stretches or exercises to determine what motions trigger your symptoms or cause them to become worse. Depending on your medical history and the types of symptoms you're experiencing, he may also order additional testing including diagnostic imaging to examine the structures of your spine and back more closely.

How can back pain be treated?

Treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms, but typically begins with anti-inflammatory and pain medications, physical therapy, posture exercises and gentle stretching techniques to relieve inflammation and improve strength and flexibility. Steroid injections and nerve blocks may also be used to reduce pain and inflammation. In a very few cases, surgery may be indicated. Dr. Miller will work with you to develop a plan that's most appropriate for your condition.