Back

Disc herniation, sciatica, and other back problems can lead to debilitating symptoms. Denver Sports Medicine and Spine takes back problems seriously, and leading physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists Yani C. Zinis, DO, and Raili Donnelly, PA-C, understand that you’re anxious to get back in the game. They offer nonsurgical solutions for back pain and function issues in the Denver, Colorado, office, so call the office or book your appointment online today. 

What causes back issues?

Back problems like pain and stiffness can occur because of:

• Lumbar strain: pulled muscle in the lower back
• Lumbar sprain: ligament tears in the lower back
• Thoracic strain: pulled muscle in the mid or upper back
• Rib dysfunction: decreased or improper rib movement
• Facet syndrome: degeneration of the joints that connect vertebrae
• Sciatica: low back pain radiating to the hip and leg
• Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction: improper movement in the joints at the base of the spine

Back issues are often associated with sports injuries or other types of accidents. However, many adults may experience back problems as they age due to degenerative changes in the spine.

When should I see a doctor about back problems?

Back problems can manifest in several ways, all requiring medical attention. If you experience any of these issues, a medical evaluation at Denver Sports Medicine and Spine is the right move. 

• Ongoing pain
• Stiffness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty standing, walking, or with other regular activities

Back problems can even take a toll on your mental health. An average of 62% of people with low back pain experience depression. But there’s good news: most patients with acute and chronic back issues improve steadily with appropriate guidance with a nonsurgical treatment regimen.  

How are back issues treated?

Denver Sports Medicine and Spine treats back issues using nonsurgical techniques. The teamis experienced in properly diagnosing individual low back conditions , and designing a non-surgical approach for recovery and prevention.  They nearly always recommend a specialized approach in physical therapy with both manual therapy and stability and strengthening.  They refer patients to elite physical therapists and refer to the neurological or orthopedic spine specialist if surgery is unavoidable.  When necessary, referrals offers cortisone, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), allograft tissue*, and viscosupplementation* in the office. 

Injections focus on the specific structures causing your back issues (for example, the SI or facet joints in the back) and treat the issue at its source. Most injections offer pain relief lasting for months.. 

The team often recommends combining injections with physical therapy. They refer patients to elite physical therapists and also have an extensive referral network of leading orthopedic surgeons for patients needing surgery. 

If back pain or stiffness is restricting your life, it’s time to find a solution. Denver Sports Medicine and Spine providers are highly experienced professionals who use the most effective nonsurgical techniques to get you back to doing what you love. Call the office or book your appointment through the online scheduling feature today.