Chronic pain in your back or joints can impact every part of your daily life including walking, driving, working, and sleeping.
The Pain Management Team at Medical Care Associates Prattville can help you manage the symptoms of conditions affecting your bones, muscles, and joints.
We are currently accepting new patients!
If you’re experiencing any of the conditions below, call 334-568-CARE to schedule an appointment.
Chronic Pain Conditions We Treat
We diagnose and treat the following chronic pain conditions:
BACK PAIN
Back pain is one of the most common medical concerns in the United States. Whether it comes on suddenly due to an accident or is a symptom of degenerative issues in the spinal cord, it can severely impact one’s daily activities.
Frequent causes of back pain:
- Muscle strains or spasms, often caused by lifting something too heavy or making abrupt movements
- Damaged disks in the spine
- Genetic conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy and scoliosis
- Injuries and falls
While back pain can gradually improve with rest and home care, it’s recommended that you see a specialist if you experience any of the following:
- Back pain lasting longer than a few weeks
- Tingling or numbness in the legs
- Back pain coinciding with any of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Difficulty urinating
- Weakness in the legs
- Unintended weight loss
OSTEOARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, typically occurring in the hands, hips, knees, and spine. It is caused by gradual wear and tear on the joints.
Osteoarthritis refers to the breakdown of the protective cartilage that cushions the joints, causing the underlying bones to change. Oftentimes, the ends of the bones begin to thicken and can form small growths known as spurs.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Bone spurs
- Joint tenderness
- Loss of flexibility
While damage to joints can’t be reversed, the symptoms of Osteoarthritis can be managed by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, physical therapy, and pain management techniques.
DIABETIC NEUROPATHY
Diabetic neuropathy is a form of nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels, affecting more than half of people with diabetes. This condition most often affects the legs and feet. Typically, symptoms develop slowly over time, and may not be noticeable until considerable nerve damage has taken place.
Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy:
- Pain or numbness in the legs, feet and hands
- Digestive issues
- Disrupted sleep due to weakness in the hands and feet
While the symptoms are often mild, they can be disabling for some, depending on the nerves affected. Diabetic neuropathy can be prevented or slowed down with proper blood sugar management and a healthy lifestyle.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends screening for diabetic neuropathy immediately following a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, followed by annual screenings.