Low back pain is a common condition that can occur at any age but becomes more common with advancing age. Identifying the source of back pain is often difficult but possible. If the source of the pain can be identified then treatment can be provided to relieve the pain and return the person to a more active and enjoyable quality of life.

There are a few common sources of low back pain which include:

1. The lumbar facet joints account for 30% of cases
2. The lumbar discs account for approximately 25% of cases
3. The sacroiliac joints account for approximately 10% of cases
4. Muscles and ligaments account for approximately 20% of cases
5. The remainder are probably due to a combination of the above

Determining the source of low back pain is achieved by;

1. Patient history
2. Examination
3. Diagnostic imaging (MRI)
4. Diagnostic blocks (injection of local anesthetic)

Types of diagnostic blocks:

1. Facet joint medial branch blocks
2. Sacroiliac joint blocks
3. Provocative discography
4. Trigger point injections

Minimally invasive treatment for low back pain includes;

1. Lumbar facet joint rhizotomies
2. Sacroiliac joint cortisone injections.
3. Sacroiliac joint rhizotomies
4. Biaculoplasty or rhizotomy the lumbar disc pain
5. Prolotherapy with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

These investigations and treatments can all be performed at the Welcome Back Clinic.