What Happens If Back Pain Is Left Untreated?

If you suffer from back pain, you know what a hindrance it can be in your daily life. Sharp and shooting pain can make even the simplest everyday tasks feel monumental.

Unfortunately, when back pain goes untreated, serious consequences can result. Here’s what you need to know:

Vertebral Fractures

A vertebral fracture can occur due to trauma or injury and should be treated right away. Not receiving treatment may cause:

Vertebral deformity
Nerve damage
Soft tissue damage
Severe pain and discomfort

The reason why untreated vertebral fractures are problematic is that the vertebrae are meant to be in perfect alignment. If your vertebrae sustain a fracture and heal improperly, you may end up with a deformity, which can impact the shape of your spine, leading to other serious issues.

Osteoarthritis of the Spine

Some level of spinal osteoarthritis is common in most people, and it doesn’t always require treatment. However, if the condition causes significant pain, it is important to reach out to a skilled physician right away. When moderate to severe arthritis is left untreated, the following spinal issues can arise:

Spinal stenosis
- When the spinal canal narrows from disc bulges, ligament growth, face joint growth, etc.
Radiculopathy
- Significant nerve pain in any of the following areas:
  - Neck
  - Back
  - Arms
  - Hips
  - Legs
  - Thighs

Herniated Discs

When a disc becomes herniated, it pinches the spinal cord or spinal nerves, causing severe pain. If you suffer from a herniated disc and don’t treat it, you may end up with severe nerve damage and pain.

Failing to treat a herniated disc can result in:

Back or neck pain
Nerve pain in the arms and legs
Tingling
Numbness
Weakness
Muscle fatigue

The aforementioned symptoms can occur nearly anywhere on the body.

Vertebral Fractures

Osteoarthritis of the Spine

Herniated Discs

We’re Here to Help

Related Posts