Back and Neck Pain

Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people seek medical care. Whether caused by a muscle strain, aging spine or nerve compression, these conditions can affect your ability to move, sleep, and enjoy daily life. 

At Banner Health neurosciences, our experts evaluate, diagnose and treat all types of spine-related pain. We use advanced imaging and evidence-based care to find the root cause of your pain and help you feel like yourself again. 

Understanding back and neck pain 

Back and neck pain can occur anywhere along the spine - from the base of the skull to the lower back. Pain may appear suddenly after an injury or develop gradually from overuse, poor posture or degenerative conditions. 

Some pain improves on its own, but persistent or worsening symptoms could signal an underlying spine condition that needs medical attention. 

Common causes of back and neck pain 

Because the spine is a complex structure of bones, nerves, muscles and ligaments, pain can come from many sources. 

Common causes include: 

• Muscle strain or ligament sprain 
• Poor posture or muscle weakness 
• Overuse or repetitive motion 
• Injury or trauma 
• Inflammation or infection 
• Degeneration of vertebrae or discs 
• Obesity or stress on the spine 
• Herniated or bulging discs 
• Osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease 

Less common causes include: 

• Osteoporosis 
• Spinal cysts or bone spurs 
• Spinal tumors or cancer 
• Systemic diseases affecting the spine 
• Congenital spinal deformities such as scoliosis or spina bifida 

If your pain lasts more than a few weeks, is severe or radiates into your arms or legs, it’s important to see a spine specialist. 

Types of back and neck pain 

Back and neck pain can be classified by how long it lasts and the structures involved. 

Acute pain lasts less than 6 weeks and is often caused by an injury or strain. 

Chronic pain lasts more than 3 months and may be related to arthritis, nerve irritation or degenerative spine disease. 

Conditions we diagnose and treat include: 

• Herniated or bulging discs 
• Pinched nerves or neuropathy 
• Spinal stenosis 
• Degenerative disc disease 
• Spondylolisthesis 
• Kyphosis and scoliosis 
• Ankylosing spondylitis 
• Spinal cord or vertebral tumors 
• Spine trauma or fractures 

Symptoms to watch for 

Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits movement. 

Common signs include: 

• Dull, sharp or burning pain in the back or neck 
• Pain that radiates into the arm, shoulder, buttocks, or leg 
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet 
• Muscle weakness 
• Stiffness or limited range of motion 
• Headaches originating from the neck (cervicogenic headaches) 
• Difficulty sitting, standing or walking for long periods 

If you notice sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control or numbness in your groin or legs, seek emergency care immediately. These may be signs of a serious spinal condition. 

Diagnosing back and neck pain 

Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. 

Your Banner Health neurosciences team may use: 

• A physical exam and review of your symptoms 
• Advanced imaging such as MRI, CT or X-ray 
• Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) 
• Diagnostic injections to pinpoint the source of pain 

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, we’ll discuss personalized treatment options designed to relieve pain and restore mobility. 

Learn more about spine testing and diagnosis. 

Treatment for back and neck pain 

Our team takes a conservative approach whenever possible, beginning with nonsurgical treatments before considering surgery. 

Nonsurgical options include: 

• Physical therapy and guided exercise 
• Medications to reduce pain and inflammation 
• Spinal injections or nerve blocks 
• Chiropractic or manual therapy 
• Posture and ergonomic education 

If pain persists despite conservative care, surgical options may be considered. 

Surgical treatments include: 

• Minimally invasive spine surgery 
• Disc replacement or spinal fusion 
• Laminectomy or decompression procedures 
• Tumor or cyst removal 
• Spine stabilization or reconstruction 

At Banner Health neurosciences, our multidisciplinary specialists - including neurosurgeons, neurologists and rehabilitation experts - work together to provide coordinated, patient-centered care. 

Learn more about spine treatment options. 

When to see a spine specialist 

You should contact your doctor or a Banner Health neurosciences specialist if you experience: 

• Persistent or worsening pain lasting more than a few weeks 
• Pain radiating to the limbs 
• Weakness, numbness or tingling 
• Unexplained weight loss or fever with back pain 
• History of cancer with new back pain 

Early diagnosis can prevent complications and lead to better outcomes.