Back Pain, Sciatica & Spine Problems: 20 Common Questions Answered

20 MOST SEARCHED SPINE QUESTIONS – PATIENT ANSWERS

1. What causes Low Back pain?

Lower back pain can happen due to:

• Muscle strain or poor posture
• Slipped disc or disc degeneration
• Long sitting, heavy lifting, or weak core muscles
• Age-related wear and tear

Most cases are not dangerous but should not be ignored if persistent.

2. What is a Slipped disc (herniated disc)?

A slipped disc happens when:

• The soft inner part of a spinal disc bulges or leaks out
• It presses on nearby nerves
• It causes back pain, leg pain, or numbness

It is common and often treatable without surgery.

3. What is Sciatica and why does it happen?

Sciatica is pain that:

• Starts in the lower back
• Travels down the buttock and leg
• Happens due to nerve compression, usually from a slipped disc

It is a symptom, not a disease.

4. How can I tell if my pain is sciatica or just back strain?

Sciatica pain:

• Radiates down the leg
• May cause tingling or numbness

Back strain:

• Stays in the back
• Improves with rest

A doctor can confirm with examination.

5. Do I need an MRI for back pain?

MRI is needed only if:

• Pain lasts more than 4–6 weeks
• There is leg pain, weakness, or numbness
• Pain is severe or worsening

Most simple back pain does not need MRI immediately.

6. When should I see a spine specialist in Mumbai?

You should consult a spine specialist if:

• Pain does not improve with rest or medication
• You have leg pain, weakness, or tingling
• Daily activities are affected

Early consultation prevents long-term problems. Consult Dr. Vishal Kundnani at Bombay Hospital or Lilavati Hospital.

7. Is Back pain serious or dangerous?

Most back pain is:

• Mechanical
• Temporary
• Treatable

However, pain with weakness, bowel/bladder issues, or fever needs urgent care.

8. How long does back pain take to heal?

• Mild pain: 1–2 weeks
• Muscle strain: 2–4 weeks
• Disc-related pain: 6–8 weeks with treatment

Recovery depends on cause and lifestyle changes.

9. Can sciatica go away on its own?

Yes, in many cases:

• Rest
• Medicines
• Physiotherapy

Surgery is needed only if pain or weakness persists.

10. What are the basic treatments for slipped disc and sciatica?

• Pain-relief medications
• Physiotherapy
• Posture correction
• Lifestyle modification

Most patients improve without surgery.

11. When is spine surgery necessary?

Spine surgery is advised only if:

• Severe nerve weakness
• Bowel or bladder problems
• Pain does not improve with conservative treatment

Surgery is the last option, not the first.

12. Can physiotherapy help back or neck pain?

Yes. Physiotherapy helps by:

• Strengthening core muscles
• Improving posture
• Reducing pain and stiffness

It is a key part of spine care.

13. How can I prevent back pain at work or home?

• Maintain correct sitting posture
• Take breaks from prolonged sitting
• Avoid sudden heavy lifting
• Regular exercise

Prevention is better than treatment.

14. What lifestyle changes help improve spine health?

• Regular walking or exercise
• Weight control
• Good sleep posture
• Avoid smoking

Small daily habits protect spine health long-term.

15. Does poor posture cause back and neck pain?

Yes. Poor posture can:

• Strain muscles
• Increase disc stress
• Cause chronic pain

Correct posture reduces long-term spine damage.

16. Is minimally invasive spine surgery effective?

Minimally invasive spine surgery:

• Uses smaller cuts
• Causes less pain
• Allows faster recovery

It is effective in selected patients.

17. What symptoms require urgent spine care (red flags)?

Seek immediate care if you have:

• Progressive weakness
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severe pain after injury
• Fever with back pain

These may indicate serious conditions.

18. Can exercise and core strengthening help back pain?

Yes. Core exercises:

• Support the spine
• Reduce recurrence of pain
• Improve flexibility

They are essential for long-term relief.

19. What causes neck pain and stiffness?

Common causes include:

• Poor posture
• Long mobile or laptop use
• Muscle strain
• Disc problems

Early treatment prevents chronic neck pain.

20. How do I know if my back pain needs medical treatment?

You need medical evaluation if:

• Pain lasts more than 2–3 weeks
• Pain spreads to arms or legs
• Daily life is affected

Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes. Consult Dr. Vishal Kundnani, a leading spine specialist in Mumbai, at Bombay Hospital or Lilavati Hospital. Book your consultation today.