Burning Pain in Back: Causes, Relief, and When to See a Doctor in Manhattan

Why Does My Back Feel Like It’s Burning?

A burning sensation in the back can stem from a number of issues including nerve compression, muscle strain, or structural problems in the spine like a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or sciatic nerve irritation. Viral infections such as shingles, inflammatory conditions, and even poor posture can also cause this sensation. If the burning pain in your back is persistent, radiates down your legs, or is paired with other symptoms like muscle weakness, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.

What Is Burning Back Pain?

Burning back pain often feels like tingling, heat, or stabbing discomfort. It can appear in the upper, middle, or lower back, and may shoot into the limbs. This type of pain is frequently caused by nerve damage or irritation but can also come from muscle strain, spinal disorders, or viral infections like a shingles rash.

💬 If you’re in Manhattan and struggling with persistent burning back pain, book an appointment with Dr. Syra Hanif for a physical examination or virtual consultation.

Common Causes of Burning Pain in the Back

1. Nerve-Related Conditions

• Herniated Disc / Herniated Disk: When a spinal disc slips out of place, it can compress nearby nerve roots, causing intense nerve pain and a burning sensation.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the spinal cord or spinal nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling.
• Sciatica: Compression of the sciatic nerve often causes burning back pain that radiates to the legs.
• Postherpetic Neuralgia: A long-term complication of a shingles rash that can result in chronic burning pain.
• Arachnoiditis: Inflammation of the tissue protecting the spinal cord, often after surgery or infection, can lead to neurological symptoms like tingling pain or weakness.

2. Muscle and Skeletal Issues

• Muscle Strain: Overuse, repeated strain, or poor posture can lead to inflammation and muscle spasms that feel like burning.
• Bone Spurs: Bony growths on the vertebrae can compress spinal nerves, causing localized pain and tingling sensations.
• Arthritis in the Spine: Often linked to disk degeneration, arthritis can cause chronic spinal pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness.

3. Other Medical Conditions

• Shingles: This painful viral infection affects the nerves and may cause surface-level burning.
• Spinal Tumor: Rarely, a spinal tumor can cause constant back pain that worsens over time.
• Diabetic Neuropathy: Diabetes can lead to nerve damage, causing a burning sensation even in the back.

Risk Factors That Can Trigger or Worsen Symptoms

• Long periods of sitting or standing in the same position
• Heavy objects or carrying heavy loads without proper lifting technique
• Smoking, which reduces blood flow to the spine
• Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, which contribute to muscle tension

Symptoms to Watch For

• Tingling sensation or “pins and needles”
• Pain that worsens with physical activity
• Muscle weakness or trouble walking
• Sensation of heat or burning localized to one area
• Pain that gets worse at night or after sudden movements

If you’re experiencing multiple symptoms, it’s time to reach out to a healthcare provider.

Diagnostic Tests and What to Expect

Your doctor may recommend:

• Physical examination and posture check
• Diagnostic tests like MRI, X-ray, or nerve conduction studies

These tests help identify conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or spinal tumors affecting the spinal column.

Treatment Options for Burning Back Pain

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Many people respond well to:

Non-Surgical Approaches

• Physical therapy with specific exercises to strengthen the back muscles
• Over the counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation
• Prescription medication like gabapentin for nerve pain
• Rest (but not for too long)
• Home remedies like using a rolled towel for lumbar support

These options can provide long-term pain relief and help you return to normal activity.

Advanced Treatments

• Epidural steroid injections
• Spinal cord stimulation
• In some cases, minimally invasive spine surgery may be needed

📍 For personalized care, book your in-person or telehealth visit here.

When to Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Call a doctor if you experience:

• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe spinal pain that doesn’t improve after a few weeks
• Burning sensation with fever or other symptoms of infection

Prevention: What You Can Do Daily

• Exercise regularly to keep your muscles strong
• Practice good posture at work and during sleep
• Avoid carrying heavy loads without back support
• Get enough sleep to allow for spinal recovery

🎯 Experiencing back pain in NYC? Schedule your virtual or in-office visit with Dr. Syra Hanif today.

FAQs About Burning Back Pain

Final Word from Manhattan Medical Arts

If you’re feeling a burning sensation in your back that won’t go away, don’t wait. With Dr. Syra Hanif, a trusted primary care physician in Manhattan, you can receive proper treatment, accurate diagnosis, and ongoing support.

Book your visit now — walk-in, telehealth, or in-person appointments available.

– Disclaimer –

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.