Health Topics

Health topics

Browse topics to help you live your best life.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common health complaints in the U.S. In fact, eight out of 10 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Symptoms include muscle ache, shooting or stabbing pain, pain that radiates down your leg and limited flexibility or range of motion of the back. Get tips to manage your pain, and know when to see your healthcare provider.

Hometown Health Blog

Back pain basics and self-care tips

Almost 80% of adults say they have experienced back pain. Follow these steps to protect from further injury and ease your pain.

Meghan Murphy MD By Meghan Murphy August 1, 2024

Pain relief for worn spinal disks

Back pain is common. Yours could be caused when the fluid-filled, shock-absorbing cushions in your spine wear out. Learn about why this happens and the nonsurgical to surgical treatment options.

Yannis Styliaras, M.D. By Yannis Styliaras June 26, 2024

Managing pain and restoring function

Pain is experienced differently by everyone. That's why it's important to have a diverse healthcare team to help address your symptoms. Here's how experts in physical medicine and rehabilitation help you manage pain and restore functionality.

Evan Nelson MD By Evan Nelson August 8, 2023

8 common myths about back pain

Are you tired of dealing with back pain, feeling confused about its causes and wondering about the best remedies? Let's debunk some common myths about back pain.

Meghan Murphy MD By Meghan Murphy July 28, 2023

How to support a loved one with chronic pain

For millions of people, living with chronic pain can significantly affect daily activities, relationships, work and well-being. Read ways you can support a loved one with chronic pain.

Qasim Raza, M.B.B.S., M.D. By Qasim Raza July 24, 2023

Pathways through persistent pain: Tips for managing chronic pain

Chronic pain affects 3 out of 10 people in the U.S. While there is no single cure, a team approach for medical management, movement therapy and learning specific coping strategies can help.

Monica Foster, Ph.D. By Monica Foster May 26, 2023

Long-lasting pain relief with radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation uses precise heat to stop nerves from sending pain signals to the brain from conditions like spinal arthritis and joint pain. Read a Q&A about this innovative treatment.

Melissa Kenevan, M.D. By Melissa Kenevan May 23, 2023

5 most common types of chronic pain treated by neurosurgeons

Nearly 100 million Americans experience chronic pain ranging from back pain to headaches. Read about the most common types evaluated and treated by neurosurgeons.

T.K. Schiefer, M.D. By T.K. Schiefer May 2, 2023

Pain in the back: Spinal arthritis

The spine is susceptible to arthritis because of its range of motion. But not everyone who has arthritis has symptoms or needs treatment. Learn how being active can keep the pain away.

Gazanfar Rahmathulla, M.B.B.S., M.D. By Gazanfar Rahmathulla March 8, 2023

Targeting pain with restorative neuromodulation

Pain management historically has addressed a symptom rather than the underlying cause. Learn how an implanted restorative neurostimulation device treats the cause of pain and not just the symptoms.

Richard Siegfried, M.D. By Richard Siegfried February 16, 2023

On pins and needles: Just what is dry needling?

While it has an intimidating name, dry needling is a commonly offered treatment for muscle, ligament or tendon pain. Learn how it can release muscle trigger points and ease pain.

Bryce Jenson, P.T., D.P.T. By Bryce Jenson February 10, 2023

Are backpacks hurting your kids' backs?

The backpack is as much as a part of school life as homework and recess. Get tips for picking out your child's backpack, and how to wear it to avoid neck and back problems.

Michelle Rein MD By Michelle Rein September 6, 2022