Back Pain Experts in San Antonio

What is back pain?

Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal issues, affecting millions of Americans every year. It can appear suddenly after an injury or develop slowly over time from strain, posture, or disc changes. Whether you’re dealing with upper back stiffness, middle back tension, or lower back pain that radiates, the orthopedic specialists at Ortho San Antonio offer advanced, personalized solutions for lasting relief.

Types of Back Pain

Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain typically develops due to muscle strain, poor posture, or spinal joint irritation. It’s often felt between the shoulder blades and may worsen with certain movements or long hours of sitting. Our orthopedic spine doctors assess posture, muscle balance, and spinal alignment to create a treatment plan that targets the source, not just the symptoms.

Middle Back Pain

Pain in the middle of the back, also known as the thoracic spine, can result from joint inflammation, disc degeneration, or muscular strain. Though less common than neck or lower back pain, it can be equally limiting. We use advanced imaging and hands-on evaluation to identify structural or soft-tissue causes and provide precise, effective care.

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is one of the most frequent reasons for medical visits. It can be caused by herniated discs, arthritis, spinal stenosis, or injury. Symptoms can range from dull aching to sharp, radiating pain that travels into the legs, often referred to as sciatica.
At Ortho San Antonio, our lower back pain specialists use evidence-based approaches to relieve pain, restore motion, and help prevent recurrence.

Common Causes of Back Pain:

Back pain can stem from a wide range of mechanical or structural problems in the spine, muscles, or nerves. Common causes include:

  • Muscle strain or ligament sprain

  • Herniated or bulging discs

  • Spinal arthritis and degeneration

  • Nerve compression or inflammation

  • Posture-related stress or imbalance

  • Traumatic injuries or overuse

Identifying the root cause of your pain allows our orthopedic team to create a personalized back pain treatment plan that’s right for you.

Back pain in San Antonio Texas Ortho SA
MEET OUR PHYSICIANS

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Our orthopedic spine specialists begin with a thorough evaluation, including a physical exam and review of your medical history. If needed, advanced imaging, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, helps us pinpoint disc, joint, or nerve involvement.

We focus on helping you understand your diagnosis, your treatment options, and how to prevent future pain. This patient-centered approach is key to long-term spine health.

Common Back Pain Symptoms

Back pain symptoms can vary widely depending on the cause, location, and severity of your condition. Some people experience mild soreness, while others have sharp, radiating pain that limits daily movement.

You may experience:

  • Dull, aching, or sharp pain in the upper, middle, or lower back

  • Stiffness or limited range of motion

  • Pain that worsens with movement, sitting, or standing

  • Muscle tightness or spasms

  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs (possible nerve compression)

  • Radiating pain from the lower back into the hips, thighs, or legs (sciatica)

  • Discomfort when bending, lifting, or twisting

  • Pain that improves with rest but returns with activity

  • Difficulty standing up straight

  • Back pain that radiates down the leg

If your back pain lasts more than a few days or interferes with your sleep or daily routine, it’s time to see an orthopedic back specialist.

Back Pain Treatment Options

At Ortho San Antonio, we believe every patient deserves a treatment plan designed around their specific needs and lifestyle. Our approach to back pain focuses on restoring function, relieving discomfort, and helping you return to the activities you enjoy, whether through non-surgical or surgical care.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Most back pain improves without surgery. Our specialists begin with the least invasive methods to reduce pain and inflammation while promoting natural healing. Non-surgical options may include personalized physical therapy programs, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modifications to improve flexibility and core strength.
When additional relief is needed, we offer image-guided injections, such as epidural steroid injections or facet joint blocks, to calm irritated nerves and decrease inflammation around the spine. Many patients experience significant improvement through these treatments alone.

Surgical Treatment Options
If conservative treatments are not effective or your pain stems from a structural issue that requires correction, our team may recommend a surgical approach. Our spine surgeons specialize in minimally invasive procedures that use smaller incisions, cause less tissue disruption, and allow for faster recovery. Surgical options may include lumbar decompression, spinal fusion, or disc replacement to relieve nerve pressure and restore spinal stability.


Every surgery is planned using advanced imaging and precision techniques, ensuring the safest and most effective outcome possible.

At Ortho San Antonio, our spine specialists work closely with you at every stage, from diagnosis and treatment to recovery and rehabilitation, to provide seamless, compassionate care that helps you move comfortably again.

Schedule An Appointment Today
Back pain in San Antonio Texas Ortho SA

Watch Dr. Richardson explain the causes of back pain and how it’s treated

click here to learn more

Our Locations

Meet Our Orthopedic Spine Surgeons

Kevin Richardson, DO Spine Surgeon in San Antonio

Kevin Richardson, DO

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Learn more
Anton Jorgensen, MD Spine Surgeon in San Antonio

Anton JOrgensen, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Learn more

Are you experiencing back pain?

Spine Surgeon in San Antonio, Texas
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE