Pain Management
Sutter Spine Services

Pain is the symptom that most often brings patients with back and neck problems to their Sutter physicians. That's understandable, since every nerve in the body radiates from the spine, and pain caused by back and neck problems can radiate into other areas. Sciatic nerves that run down both legs are especially painful when back problems create pressure or friction on the nerves.

Providing relief from pain is the first goal of treatment, which may include medication, diet and exercise programs, physical therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and counseling to help with the mental and emotional stress pain creates.

Locating the cause of pain is the critical second step. Sutter's advanced diagnostic equipment enables physicians to find the cause quickly so that long-term treatment can begin. Once the source has been found and treated, pain should subside. When pain continues or no specific source can be found, you may be referred to one of Sutter's board-certified pain management specialists for the latest treatment options. In addition, many Sutter primary care physicians and neurologists, neurosurgeons, internal medicine, anesthesiologists, and other specialists maintain a practice focusing on pain management. Ask your primary care physician about the programs available.

For further information see our Healthwise health information sections on back problems and injuries low back pain neck problems and injuries, neck pain, physical therapy and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). You can find additional services available through our Sutter Integrative Health program.

For more information on Nonsurgical Treatments, select one of the following:

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