Back Pain

Back pain can throw a wrench in anyone’s plans, and kids often have an especially hard time adapting. At Konigsberg Pediatric Orthopaedics in Midland Park, New Jersey, David Konigsberg, MD, is here to help kids find lasting relief from back pain, getting them back on their feet and into the swing of normal routines. Book your visit online or by phone today to get started.

What are some of the more common causes of pediatric back pain?

Kids are incredibly resilient, but their bodies are also subject to many of the same forces and factors that lead to back pain in adults. Unfortunately, children don’t always have the same coping skills as adults, and back pain can be distressing and disruptive. 

Some of the more common causes of back pain in children include:

• Muscle strain
• Muscle imbalance
• Slipped vertebrae
• Spinal stress fracture
• Spinal deformities

Less often, back pain can result from a tumor or infection. Sports injuries are also a common source of back pain in kids. The challenges of athletic training, conditioning, and play can all place the structures of the back under stress and strain. 

Won’t back pain get better on its own?

In some cases, minor musculoskeletal issues will resolve on their own. But if a child experiences severe back pain or doesn’t improve after a couple of days of rest, it’s important to come in for a diagnostic workup. 

The human back is a complex structure composed of bones, muscles, nerves, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels, and discs. A problem in any of these components can lead to pain and reduced spinal mobility. Allowing issues to go untreated can complicate matters, making a relatively simple issue far more involved. 

There’s no need to wait until back pain is unbearable before you seek treatment. At Konigsberg Pediatric Orthopaedics, your family has access to highly skilled care backed by state-of-the-art technology. 

What is the diagnostic process for pediatric back pain?

The first stage is gathering information about symptoms and overall health. A physical exam helps Dr. Konigsberg better understand where pain originates and look for signs of physiological changes like a curved spine. 

Basic strength and reflex testing provide additional insight. During the assessment, your child may be asked to change position or perform basic movements. In some cases, imaging helps determine if structural issues might be causing back pain. Lab testing, usually from a simple blood draw, can also play a role in the diagnostic process. 

If you need to schedule a diagnostic evaluation, you can reach Konigsberg Pediatric Orthopaedics online or by phone to find a time that fits your busy life.