What causes chronic back pain?
Chronic low back pain can arise from the discs, facet joints, sacroiliac joints, muscles, or nerves of the spine. Common causes include disc degeneration or herniation ("slipped disc"), facet joint arthritis, and muscle deconditioning. Identifying which structure is generating the pain is the key step, because treatments differ — this is the core work of a pain medicine specialist.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back down the leg, often with tingling or numbness, caused by irritation or compression of a nerve root in the lower spine — most commonly from a herniated disc. Most sciatica improves with time and correct conservative care, but persistent or severe cases benefit from image-guided treatment targeting the affected nerve.
Which back pain symptoms are warning signs?
Seek medical attention promptly if back pain occurs with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the inner thighs or genital area, progressive leg weakness, fever, unexplained weight loss, or pain that wakes you from sleep at night. These features can indicate serious conditions that need urgent assessment rather than routine treatment.
Can back pain be treated without surgery?
Yes — most chronic back pain does not need surgery. Non-surgical treatments provided by Dr. Bindiya Devi, MD in Imphal include precise image-guided injections such as epidural and nerve root blocks, facet joint procedures, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for longer-lasting relief, medicines targeted to the pain type, and structured movement rehabilitation. Surgery is considered only for specific indications, and a pain specialist can help clarify whether your condition is one of them.
Is bed rest good for back pain?
No — prolonged bed rest is one of the most common mistakes in back pain care. Staying gently active within comfortable limits leads to faster recovery than bed rest for most back pain. Movement keeps the spine's supporting muscles working and prevents stiffness. Guided, gradual activity — not complete rest — is the modern standard of care.
What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for back pain?
Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses controlled heat, delivered through a fine needle under image guidance, to quiet the small nerves carrying pain signals from arthritic spinal joints. It is performed as a day procedure and can provide relief lasting many months, often longer, in appropriately selected patients. Suitability is confirmed with a diagnostic test block first.
When should I see a pain specialist for back pain?
See a pain medicine specialist if your back pain has lasted more than three months, radiates into the leg, has not improved with medicines and physiotherapy, keeps returning, or if you are relying on daily painkillers to function. Earlier diagnosis of the pain source leads to more targeted and effective treatment.
How do I book a back pain consultation in Imphal?
Consultations with Dr. Bindiya Devi, MD are by appointment in Imphal, Manipur. Book by WhatsApp or phone, and bring any previous MRI or X-ray reports to your appointment. (Insert phone number and WhatsApp link.)