Back pain is one of the most common reasons people in Bloomfield and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan seek medical care. Whether the pain came on suddenly or has been lingering for months, back pain can interfere with work, sleep, and everyday activities.
Understanding why your back hurts is the first—and most important—step toward real relief.
Common Reasons Your Back May Hurt
While many people assume back pain comes from pulled muscles, most back pain actually originates in the spine. Common causes include:
Degenerative Changes in the Spine
As we age, the spine naturally undergoes wear and tear. This can lead to:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Arthritis of the spine
- Loss of disc height
These changes are especially common in adults over 40 and can cause stiffness, aching, or nerve-related pain.
Herniated or Bulging Discs
Discs act as cushions between the bones of the spine. When a disc bulges or herniates, it can press on nearby nerves, causing:
- Sharp back pain
- Pain radiating into the buttocks or legs (sciatica)
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, placing pressure on the nerves. This often causes:
- Back or leg pain with walking or standing
- Relief when sitting or leaning forward
Poor Posture and Body Mechanics
Long hours sitting, improper lifting, or poor posture can place excessive stress on the spine over time—especially when underlying degeneration is already present.
Trauma or Falls
Even minor falls or accidents can cause fractures, disc injuries, or spinal instability—particularly in older adults or those with osteoporosis.
When Back Pain Becomes Chronic
Back pain is considered chronic when it lasts longer than three months. Chronic pain usually indicates an underlying structural issue in the spine rather than a simple strain.
Without an accurate diagnosis, treatment may be ineffective—or even make symptoms worse.
Why an Accurate Diagnosis Matters
A common mistake many patients experience is starting treatment before the true cause of pain is identified. Physical therapy, medications, or injections may not help if the diagnosis is incorrect.
At Oakland Orthopedic, we believe that a problem well defined is half solved. Identifying the exact source of your back pain allows for targeted, effective treatment.
Back Pain Evaluation Near Bloomfield
When patients from Bloomfield or Bloomfield Hills visit Dr. Bruce Henderson, MD, they can expect a thorough, patient-focused evaluation that includes:
- Detailed medical history
- Comprehensive physical examination
- On-site X-rays in most cases
- Advanced imaging (MRI or CT) when necessary
Dr. Henderson is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 42 years of experience diagnosing and treating spinal conditions.
Most Back Pain Does NOT Require Surgery
The good news is that surgery is rarely necessary. Most patients improve with non-operative treatments such as:
- Posture and body mechanics education
- Activity and lifestyle modifications
- Bracing when appropriate
- Targeted injections
When surgery is required, Dr. Henderson uses minimally invasive techniques to reduce pain and recovery time. He also treats vertebral compression fractures with kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive procedure that often provides immediate relief.
Trusted Orthopedic Care for Bloomfield & Bloomfield Hills
Oakland Orthopedic is conveniently located just minutes from Bloomfield in the Trinity Health Medical Building (North Entrance) in Pontiac and is affiliated with Trinity Health Oakland Hospital, recognized for excellence in orthopedic surgery and joint replacement.
Oakland Orthopedic
44555 Woodward Ave, Suite 407
Pontiac, MI 48341
If you’re asking, “Why does my back hurt?”—the answer starts with the right diagnosis. Call 248-334-0524 or book an appointment online to take the first step toward lasting relief.
