What is the difference between acute and chronic back pain?

Acute back pain is short-term typically lasting days to a few weeks and usually resolves as the injured tissue heals. Chronic back pain is defined as pain lasting three months or longer. The distinction matters because chronic pain often requires a different treatment approach: rather than simply resting and waiting for healing, it typically needs targeted intervention to address the underlying structural or neurological cause.

When should I see a pain specialist for chronic back pain?

You should consider seeing a pain specialist if your back pain has persisted for more than six weeks without clear improvement, if it radiates into your legs or causes numbness or weakness, or if it is affecting your ability to work, sleep, or carry out daily activities. At MVM Health’s Bethlehem Pain Clinic and NJ locations, specialists can evaluate your symptoms and identify the specific cause before recommending treatment.

What are the most effective pain treatments for chronic back pain?

The most effective treatments depend on the underlying cause. For disc-related pain, epidural injections and regenerative therapies like PRP are often highly effective. For facet joint arthritis, radiofrequency ablation provides durable relief. Some cases of spinal stenosis may respond well to the MILD procedure. For complex or treatment-resistant cases, spinal cord stimulation is one of the most evidence-based options available. MVM Health offers all of these and builds individualized plans for each patient.

Can chronic back pain go away on its own?

Some cases of chronic back pain do improve over time, particularly when the cause is muscular and the person makes meaningful lifestyle changes such as improving posture, strengthening their core, and reducing prolonged sitting. However, structural causes of herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and facet arthritis rarely resolve without direct intervention. Waiting typically allows these conditions to progress, which makes treatment more complex and recovery longer.

Does MVM Health treat patients from New Jersey?

Yes. MVM Health serves patients as pain specialists in NJ from locations in Scotch Plains and Stanhope, in addition to multiple Pennsylvania clinic locations including Bethlehem, East Stroudsburg, King of Prussia, and Reading. Telehealth consultations are also available for patients who prefer a virtual first visit. Schedule an appointment with MVM Health to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.