Neck and back pain are among the most common reasons people seek medical care. From poor posture and degenerative changes to injuries and chronic conditions, pain in the spine can significantly disrupt daily life. At the practice of Sara Goel, DO, patients have access to a full spectrum of advanced pain management options—including Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)—to help restore function, mobility, and quality of life.
Understanding Neck & Back Pain
Neck and back pain can present as stiffness, soreness, shooting pain, or even radiating numbness and tingling into the arms or legs. Common causes include:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Arthritis of the spine
- Muscle strain or ligament sprain
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Chronic nerve-related pain
Comprehensive Treatments Available
Dr. Goel offers a personalized, evidence-based approach to spine care. Treatments may include:
- Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Guided exercises and strengthening to support spinal stability and improve function.
- Medications – Anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, and other targeted options for pain relief.
- Epidural Steroid Injections – Reducing inflammation and irritation around the nerves for longer-term pain relief.
- Facet Joint Injections & Medial Branch Blocks – Targeted therapies for arthritis-related pain.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Heat-based therapy to block pain signals from problematic nerves.
- Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) – A minimally invasive, implantable device that interrupts pain signals before they reach the brain, offering significant relief for chronic pain sufferers.
Spinal Cord Stimulation is often considered for patients who have tried other therapies without success. It can provide lasting relief and reduce the need for ongoing medication.
Q&A: Neck & Back Pain Treatment
Q: How do I know what’s causing my neck or back pain?
A: Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging (like MRI or X-ray), and a thorough medical history. Dr. Goel carefully evaluates each patient to identify the root cause.
Q: When should I consider spinal injections or advanced therapies?
A: If conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, and medications are not enough, spinal injections or radiofrequency ablation may be recommended to target the source of pain directly.
Q: What is Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) and who is it for?
A: SCS is a treatment where a small device is implanted under the skin to deliver mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord. It is typically offered to patients with chronic nerve-related pain or those who have not found relief with surgery or other therapies.
Q: Is SCS permanent?
A: SCS is adjustable and reversible. Patients can undergo a trial before permanent implantation to ensure it provides meaningful pain relief.
Q: Can I avoid surgery with these treatments?
A: In many cases, yes. Interventional pain management techniques can help patients avoid or delay major surgery while still finding relief.
Q: Will my pain ever fully go away?
A: Results vary, but many patients experience significant improvements in pain and function. The goal of treatment is to restore quality of life and help patients return to activities they enjoy.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you are living with persistent neck or back pain, it’s time to explore effective and personalized solutions. Sara Goel, DO, offers compassionate care backed by advanced therapies like Spinal Cord Stimulation to help you take back control of your life.
📍 Main Street Office
7700 Main St, Suite 400
Houston, TX 77030
📞 (346) 230-4070
📍 Sugar Land Office
16902 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100
Sugar Land, TX 77479
📞 (346) 230-4070