Back Pain

Back pain is a prevalent and often debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide. It can significantly impact daily life, leading to discomfort, reduced mobility, and decreased quality of life.

Effective management and treatment require accurate diagnosis, which may involve medical history assessments, physical examinations, and imaging tests. Various treatment options, including regenerative therapies, physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery, can help alleviate pain and restore function. Seeking timely medical advice is crucial for addressing back pain and improving overall well-being.

Procedural Videos

We understand that you want to know what will happen and how things work. Watch the following videos to get an idea of how our doctors and teams do what they do and what you can expect during surgery.

This short, easy to follow animation will help you understand anterior spine surgery and answer the questions: What is the ALIF procedure? How is the procedure performed? And what are the fixation options?

For educational purposes only. No copyright infringement intended. All video parts are the sole property of Nuvasive.

Laminectomy is a surgical procedure that attempts to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, cauda equina, or nerve roots in the spine. During a laminectomy, the surgeon will remove bony and soft-tissue anatomy to open up the spinal canal and create more space for the nerves that have been impinged.

The XLIF technique is a minimally disruptive surgical procedure performed through the side of the body. It is designed to treat a range of spinal pathologies. Using patented nerve monitoring technology, the surgeon gains lateral (side) access to the spinal column, avoiding any major nerves in the area between the incision and the column. The XLIF procedure does not require an anterior (front) or posterior (back) exposure, and thereby does not present the same risks of vascular and/or neural injury as traditional approaches.

Discectomy is a surgical procedure that attempts to relieve pressure on the nerve roots in the spine. During a laminectomy, the surgeon will remove unhealthy or herniated portions of the appropriate intervertebral disc to alleviate pain.

Post-op with Chase

We care about our patient’s success before, during, and after surgery. Chase breaks down some of the most common questions and answers when it comes to your postoperative care.

Causes of Back Pain

  • Muscle Strains or Sprains: Resulting from overuse, lifting heavy objects, or sudden movements.

  • Poor Posture: Leading to muscle imbalances and strain over time.

  • Herniated Discs: Discs that cushion vertebrae can bulge or rupture.

  • Degenerative Conditions: Such as spinal stenosis and osteoarthritis.

  • Spinal Abnormalities: Conditions like scoliosis can cause alignment issues.

  • Trauma or Injury: From accidents, falls, or sports injuries.

Common Symptoms:


Recognizing the common symptoms of back pain is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care. At Huntsman Spinal Clinic, our expert team is dedicated to helping you find relief and improve your spinal health.

  • Dull, aching pain in the lower back

    A persistent, non-specific pain that is often felt deep within the lower back. This type of pain can range from mild to severe and typically worsens with prolonged standing or sitting.

  • Sharp or shooting pain that may radiate to the buttocks or legs

    An intense, localized pain that may radiate from the back to the buttocks, legs, or even feet. This pain can feel like a stabbing sensation or an electric shock.

  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion

    A sensation of tightness or difficulty moving the back, which can make everyday activities such as bending, twisting, or lifting challenging.

  • Muscle spasms

    Sudden, involuntary contractions of the back muscles, which can be painful and limit movement. These spasms can occur suddenly and may vary in intensity and duration.s.

  • Pain with Movement

    Pain that worsens with specific movements or activities, such as bending forward, lifting objects, or twisting the spine.

Specialized Care, Customized To You

Your symptoms and your situation are as you unique as you. Our team of hand-selected experts can diagnose your problems and provide world-class care, right here in Salt Lake County. Call us today to discuss your treatment options.