Back Pain


BACK PAIN PHYSICIAN IN CHARLESTON, SC


Chronic back pain is one of the most common complaints physicians hear and it’s a leading cause of disability. If you suffer from back pain, you’re not alone.

Fortunately, there are several non-surgical treatments and techniques to ease–and prevent–constant back pain. In fact, surgery is rarely used to treat back pain.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS


Most people know when they have back pain since it can be debilitating and even cause pain in other parts of your body, like your legs or abdomen.

Here are some signs of back pain that may be a bit more serious:

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR


Most patients find some relief with at-home treatments, although it may take a few weeks to take effect. Contact your primary care physician if you experience back pain that:

Although it is rare, back pain can signal a serious medical condition. Please seek emergency treatment for back pain that:

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CAUSES


DIAGNOSIS

TREATMENT


At Pain Specialists of Charleston, our board-certified team offers pain management treatment in the form of: 

MEET DOCTOR EDWARD M. TAVEL, JR., MD


  • Over 20+ Years of Specialty Training
  • Double Board-Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management

WHO ARE WE 
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AWARDS & ASSOCIATIONS

AS SEEN ON

CONDITIONS WE MANAGE

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TREATMENTS WE OFFER

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WHY CHOOSE US

At Pain Specialists of Charleston, we strive to provide an unmatched healthcare experience – one focused on finding relief. With this goal guiding our pain management physicians, we prioritize the following:

Compassionate and Comprehensive Care

Our practice takes a multidisciplinary approach to pain care that puts patients first. We’re proud to offer a full range of pain management procedures and treatments, including physical therapy, medical massage therapy, pain psychology, medication management, and more.

Timely Treatment

Because many of our patients suffer from severe pain, we’re committed to scheduling appointments as quickly as possible. This ensures the speedy start of a treatment plan to relieve and/or manage their pain.

Access to Safe Pain Management

Pain Specialists of Charleston offers a higher level of healthcare, performing all interventional procedures to meet strict, sterile standards and rigorously comply with all FDA, CDC, state, and federal medical safety guidelines.

Quality Care

Our providers are not only prominent leaders in the field of pain management, but advocates for the Charleston, SC patients we so proudly serve. It’s our exceptional care that sets us apart and earns our patients’ trust. 

FAQS


HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BACK PAIN IS SOMETHING SERIOUS?

If your back pain doesn’t improve after a few weeks, it may signify a more serious issue and necessitate a visit to a doctor. Other signs that your back pain is serious include numbness and tingling in your arms or legs, pain that doesn’t respond to medication and pain that comes on after an injury or fall.

We do not recommend self-diagnosing your back pain. Instead, work with your primary care physician and/or one of the pain management specialists at Pain Specialists of Charleston.

WHERE ARE BACK PAINS MOST COMMONLY FELT?

Lower back pain is extremely common and typically results from muscle or tendon strains. Many people also experience upper back pain due to poor posture, herniated discs, or overuse. However, pain from arthritis, disc injuries, or structural problems can be felt in any part of the back.

WHY IS THE MIDDLE OF MY BACK HURTING SO MUCH? 

Middle back pain can be caused by a range of factors, including poor posture, injury, overuse, herniated discs, or osteoarthritis.

WHAT CAUSES LOWER BACK PAIN NEAR THE BUTTOCKS

Low back pain near the buttocks may be caused by muscle strain, muscle spasms, or sciatica. You can typically find some relief with rest and applying heat or ice.

HOW TO SLEEP WITH BACK PAIN?

If you have lower back pain, the best sleeping position is on your side with a slight bend in your knees. The bend in your legs helps to reduce the pressure on your lumbar spine. A pillow between your knees will help make this position even more comfortable.

HOW CAN I TELL THE TYPE OF BACK PAIN I’M SUFFERING? 

Back pain can be acute or chronic. If your pain comes on suddenly and is temporary, it is acute. If you’re experiencing pain that either goes away and returns regularly or never fully subsides, it is chronic. 

WHICH TYPE OF BACK PAIN SHOULD BE TAKEN VERY SERIOUSLY? 

If your pain lasts longer than a few weeks, doesn’t improve with rest or medication, or spreads to the legs, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

WHAT ARE RED FLAGS FOR LOWER BACK PAIN?

If you still feel pain after rest, at night, or in conjunction with unexplained weight loss, that is a red flag that may be a sign of a more serious condition. We recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible.

WHAT ARE THE RED FLAGS FOR MIDDLE BACK PAIN?

While back pain doesn’t always indicate a serious issue, if you start experiencing pain that becomes worse at night and/or occurs with a fever, numbness, or incontinence, seek medical attention, as these could be indicators of a more serious issue.

WHAT IS THORACIC BACK PAIN?

Thoracic back pain occurs in the upper back, typically from the shoulder blades to the mid back. It is common in patients in all stages of life, but the causes are typically more serious spinal conditions. 

WHAT ARE THE RED FLAGS FOR THORACIC BACK PAIN?

If you’re feeling thoracic back pain that lasts for several days along with muscle stiffness and numbness or tingling in your chest, abdomen, or legs, this signifies a serious problem. In addition, incontinence or bowel dysfunction are red flags. If you experience any of these with your back pain, seek medical attention.

HOW CAN YOU TELL IF BACK PAIN IS MUSCULAR OR ANOTHER ISSUE?

If your pain feels sore, tight, or achy, it is likely a strained muscle. Irritated nerves feel hot, tingly, or electric. Either way, we recommend seeing a pain management physician to help get to the root of your pain.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BACK PAIN IS KIDNEY-RELATED?

Your kidneys are located just below your rib cage on either side of your spine. You will feel kidney pain in your upper back, deep in your back. This pain can radiate to your abdomen or groin. If you believe the pain you’re experiencing is starting in your kidneys, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BACK PAIN IS A DISC OR MUSCLE?

Pain from a pulled muscle feels dull and achy. It often improves with rest and ice or heat. The pain from slipped or ruptured discs is sharp and may feel like it’s radiating to your shoulders or abdomen. This type of pain does not respond to rest. 

WHAT DOES A PINCHED NERVE IN THE BACK FEEL LIKE? 

A pinched nerve feels like a sharp or burning pain that may radiate to other parts of your back. You may also experience numbness or tingling in your arms, legs, hands, and feet.

DO I HAVE TO LIVE WITH CHRONIC BACK PAIN?

No! Back pain doesn’t have to “just” be part of your life. There are a variety of non-surgical treatment options–such as massage therapy, injections, and nerve blocks–to help ease your pain and improve your quality of life.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT AT PAIN SPECIALISTS OF CHARLESTON?

At your first appointment, you and your pain management physician will discuss your pain, including any injuries and additional symptoms. Then, your physician will perform a physical exam of your back. With this information, they will determine next steps, including additional testing and treatment options. What Should I Bring? LEARN MORE

ARE YOU ACCEPT NEW PATIENTS?

Yes, Pain Specialists of Charleston is open to new patients. Call us at (843) 818-1181 to request an appointment!

DOES PAIN SPECIALISTS OF CHARLESTON REQUIRE A REFERRAL?

No, we accept both self-made and referral appointments. Schedule your first appointment today! BOOK NOW

DOES PAIN SPECIALISTS OF CHARLESTON OFFER SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS?

Yes, Pain Specialists of Charleston offers same-day appointments. We are open 5 days a week, so call us at (843) 818-1181 to learn about availability.

HOW LONG IS A PAIN MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENT?

Your first visit will last approximately 30 minutes. Subsequent appointments will vary in length depending on the treatment(s) recommended. What else should new patients expect? LEARN MORE

Hours and Location


Open 5 Days a Week! - Monday - Thursday 8am-4:30pm | Friday 8am-1:00pm | Saturday CLOSED | Sunday CLOSED

2695 Elms Plantation Blvd, Suite A, Charleston, SC



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