Low back pain treatment in Stamford, CT
Maybe it started while you were lifting a box or raking leaves. Maybe it crept up over months. Low back pain gets in the way of work, sleep and picking up your kids, and you don't have to wait it out.
- Stiff in the morning
- Pain bending or lifting
- Hurts after sitting
Does this sound like you?
Low back pain shows up in different ways. The common ones:
- Dull ache or sharp pain across the lower back
- Stiffness first thing in the morning
- Pain when bending, lifting or twisting
- Discomfort after sitting or standing for a long time
- Muscle spasms or a feeling of “locking up”
- Pain that spreads into the buttocks or hips
What's actually going on
Most low back pain is mechanical. It comes from the joints, discs, muscles and ligaments of the spine rather than from a disease. Common triggers include lifting with poor form, long hours of sitting and weak core or hip muscles. A sudden jump in activity, like the first warm weekend of yard work, is another.
Often one or two joints in the lower spine or pelvis stop moving properly. The muscles around them tighten to protect the area, and that tightness becomes its own source of pain. Treatment breaks that cycle.
When to see a medical doctor first
Call 911 or go to the ER now if you have:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness in the groin area
- Severe pain after a fall or accident
See your doctor within a day or two if you have:
- New back pain with a fever, or with a history of cancer
- Pain that's worse at night and doesn't ease when you change position
Most back pain isn't serious. These signs are the exceptions, and they need a medical doctor first.
How Dr. Burstein treats low back pain
Since most back pain comes from stiff joints and guarding muscles, treatment works on both:
What recovery usually looks like
- First visits Reducing pain and spasm, restoring basic movement.
- Weeks 2–4 Most recent back pain improves significantly. Exercises begin.
- After that Strength and habits that keep it from coming back. Chronic pain takes longer, but often improves too.
Recent back pain usually settles faster than pain you've had for years. Your estimate is based on what the exam finds.
What you can do today
- Keep moving gently. Bed rest tends to slow recovery.
- Use ice in the first 48 hours after a strain, then heat for stiffness.
- Get up from your desk every 30 minutes.
- Bend at the hips and knees, not the waist, when lifting.
Common questions
When should I see someone for back pain?
If pain lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, spreads down your leg, or stops you from working or sleeping, it's worth an evaluation. If you have any of the warning signs listed on this page, see a medical doctor first.
Is it better to see a chiropractor or a doctor for back pain?
The American College of Physicians' 2017 guideline recommends starting with non-drug treatments such as heat, exercise and spinal manipulation for most low back pain. A chiropractor is a reasonable first stop, and Dr. Burstein will refer you to a physician if your exam suggests something that needs medical care.
Will my back pain come back?
It often does if the cause isn't addressed. That's why your plan includes exercises and habit changes, not just treatment for today's pain.
Early-morning and after-hours visits. No referral needed.
Book a visit or call (203) 325-8112Other problems Dr. Burstein treats
Sciatica
Pain, burning or tingling that travels from the low back or buttock down the leg.
Herniated & degenerative discs
Bulging, herniated or worn discs causing back pain, neck pain or pain into an arm or leg.
Sports injuries
Sprains, strains and overuse injuries from running, golf, tennis, pickleball, CrossFit and more.
Let's find out what's behind your back pain
Tell us a little about what's going on. The office will call you back to find a time, and can look up your insurance benefits before you come in.
- A call back from the office to set a time
- Help looking up your insurance benefits
- A complimentary first evaluation for new patients