Understanding Back Pain: Causes & How The Emergency Center Can Help

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency care. It can strike suddenly after an injury or gradually build over time due to age-related changes or repetitive strain. Whether it’s a sharp pain in your lower back or a dull ache between your shoulder blades, back pain can seriously interfere with your daily life.

At The Emergency Center, we understand that back pain is more than just a nuisance—it can be debilitating. Our facilities are open 24/7 and fully equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of back issues, so you can get the relief you need, when you need it most.

Types of Back Pain: What They Mean and How to Recognize Them

Back pain is generally categorized by its location:

Lower Back Pain

This is the most common form of back pain and often involves the lumbar spine. It can result from:

• Muscle Strain: Lifting something too heavy or twisting awkwardly.
• Herniated Discs: When the cushion-like discs between vertebrae bulge or rupture.
• Sciatica: Nerve pain radiating from the lower back down through the legs.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear-and-tear on spinal discs.

Upper Back Pain

Though less common, upper back pain—usually felt in the thoracic spine—can be just as serious. It may stem from:

• Poor Posture: Hours spent hunched over computers or phones.
• Muscle Irritation: Often due to repetitive motion or overuse.
• Vertebral Fractures: Often linked to trauma or osteoporosis.
• Referred Pain: Sometimes pain in the upper back is actually coming from a heart or lung issue, which is why immediate evaluation is crucial.

Common Causes of Back Pain: Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It

There’s no one-size-fits-all cause, but some common contributors include:

Aging

As we get older, our bones and joints undergo natural wear and tear. Discs can dry out and shrink, joints may develop arthritis, and muscles may lose strength—all of which increase the risk of back pain.

Injuries & Accidents

Falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or sudden awkward movements can cause sprains, fractures, or disc injuries. Even a minor fall can lead to severe pain, especially in older adults or individuals with underlying conditions like osteoporosis.

Work & Lifestyle

Jobs that require lifting, bending, or long periods of sitting or standing can stress the spine. Poor posture, lack of exercise, and obesity also contribute to strain on the back.

Signs You Need To Visit The Emergency Center

While some back pain can be managed with rest and over-the-counter pain relief, there are times when you should seek immediate medical care:

• Pain after a fall, accident, or trauma
• Numbness or tingling in the legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Pain that radiates down the legs or arms
• Unexplained weight loss, fever, or weakness
• Pain that doesn’t improve with rest

These could be signs of serious conditions like spinal fractures, infections, or nerve damage—and fast treatment can make all the difference.

How The Emergency Center Can Help You Relieve Back Pain

At The Emergency Center, you never have to wait for back pain care. Our physicians are experienced in treating both acute and chronic back issues. We offer:

• Advanced Imaging On-Site: Including X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds to quickly diagnose fractures, disc problems, or other underlying conditions.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: We don’t just treat symptoms—we investigate the cause of your pain.
• Immediate Pain Relief: Through medications, muscle relaxants, or targeted injections.
• Specialist Referrals: When needed, we’ll coordinate follow-up care with orthopedic specialists, neurologists, or physical therapists.
• Comfortable Environment: No crowded waiting rooms or rushed visits—just personalized care designed to ease your discomfort.

Get Fast Relief: Don’t Let Back Pain Hold You Back

Back pain doesn’t wait for office hours—and neither should you. Whether your pain is new or has been lingering for weeks, The Emergency Center is ready to help 24/7, every day of the year. Walk in any time, and take the first step toward feeling better—your back will thank you.

The Emergency Center. Real Emergency Care. Real Fast.

The Emergency Center

San Antonio
11320 Alamo Ranch Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78253
Phone: 210-485-3644

Conroe
4019 Interstate 45 N,
Conroe, TX 77304
Phone: 936-247-9457