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Back Pain Specialist In Tampa

Florida Spine & Pain Specialists

Interventional Pain Specialists & Sports Medicine Specialists located in Riverview, FL

Chronic back pain is a leading cause of disability in the United States. If you’re dealing with severe pain, especially in your mid or low back, book an appointment online or by phone with Dr. Nomen Azeem at Florida Spine & Pain Specialists in Riverview or Wesley Chapel, Florida, to learn about recent advances in treating back pain. 

Lasting Relief Starts with the Right Back Pain Specialist

Lower back pain can make even the simplest daily tasks feel overwhelming. Whether it’s getting out of bed, driving to work, or playing with your kids, pain that won’t go away can take a serious toll on your comfort, independence, and peace of mind.

If you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure where to turn, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to live this way. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, we provide non-surgical lower back pain treatment in Tampa that’s tailored to your needs, your body, and your goals.

Call us today at (813) 333-1353 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.

What’s Causing Your Back Pain? A Look by Region

Back pain can affect different areas of the spine, each with its own challenges and causes. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, we tailor your treatment based on where the pain originates and what’s driving it. Here’s how each spinal region may be affected and why understanding the source is key to long-term relief.

Tampa back pain specialist examines patient

Upper Back Pain: Often Overlooked, Still Disruptive

Upper back pain is less common than issues in the lower spine, but it can still be deeply disruptive. When discomfort radiates across the shoulders or into the chest, it can interfere with daily tasks and cause concern.

Common causes include:

  • Muscle strain from poor posture, overuse, or repetitive movement
  • Thoracic spine disc degeneration that impacts spinal cushioning
  • Scoliosis affecting the alignment of the upper spine

Because this region connects with the ribs and shoulder blades, pain may spread beyond the spine itself. It’s important not to dismiss these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen.

Middle Back Pain: Anchoring the Spine

The middle back serves as the anchor between your upper and lower spine. While pain here is less frequently discussed, it can develop from strain or structural issues and may feel deep or radiating.

Common causes include:

  • Joint dysfunction in the thoracic vertebrae
  • Muscle tension or repetitive stress from bending, lifting, or twisting
  • Spinal stenosis narrowing the thoracic canal

Because mid-back pain can sometimes mimic internal organ discomfort, expert evaluation is critical to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary worry.

Lower Back Pain: The Most Common Culprit

Lower back pain is the most frequently reported spinal issue, and one of the top reasons patients seek help from our team at FLSPS. It can appear suddenly or develop gradually and often worsens with activity or prolonged sitting.

Common causes include:

  • Herniated or bulging discs pressing on nearby nerves
  • Degenerative disc disease reducing flexibility and shock absorption
  • Lumbar arthritis or spinal stenosis narrowing space in the lower spine
  • Sciatica or nerve root compression causing radiating leg pain

When left untreated, lower back pain can disrupt sleep, limit mobility, and lead to long-term disability. Fortunately, the right diagnosis can open the door to lasting relief.

When to See a Back Pain Specialist

Back pain doesn’t have to reach an unbearable level before you seek help. In fact, early care from a qualified provider can prevent further damage and provide relief sooner. If you’ve been searching for a “back doctor near me,” know that Florida Spine & Pain Specialists is here with advanced, non-surgical options and compassionate support.

Don’t Wait for the Pain to Take Over

Too often, people wait until their pain becomes constant or disabling before seeing a specialist. But even manageable or off-and-on discomfort can signal something deeper. Addressing the issue early can lead to faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.

Key Signs It’s Time to See a Specialist

You should consult a back pain specialist if you experience:

  • Pain lasting longer than a few weeks
  • Discomfort that spreads to your arms, legs, or buttocks
  • Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
  • Trouble with balance, walking, or coordination
  • Difficulty sitting or sleeping due to pain

These symptoms could point to nerve involvement or spinal instability, which requires careful evaluation and targeted care.

Back Pain Shouldn’t Be a Daily Battle

Chronic pain can drain your energy, dampen your mood, and disrupt your ability to enjoy life. When rest, stretching, or over-the-counter remedies stop working, it’s time to explore expert care.

At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, you’ll find a supportive team committed to getting to the root of your discomfort, not just masking the symptoms. In the next section, we’ll explain how we diagnose your back pain and what to expect from your first visit.

How FLSPS Diagnoses Back Pain

Understanding the “why” behind your back pain is the key to long-term relief. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, diagnosis isn’t rushed or one-size-fits-all — it’s personal. Whether your pain is new or chronic, our team takes the time to uncover the true cause so we can treat it effectively and with compassion.

We Start by Listening to Your Story

Care begins with a conversation. Our specialists want to hear about your symptoms, how the pain affects your daily life, and what you’ve already tried. We’ll map your pain, assess mobility, and note any red-flag symptoms. Your input guides every step and you’ll never feel rushed.

Advanced Diagnostics Tailored to Your Needs

If diagnostic tests are needed, we use them thoughtfully. This may include:

  • X-rays to examine bones and alignment
  • MRI or CT scans to evaluate discs, nerves, or soft tissue
  • Nerve conduction studies, if nerve damage is suspected

We only recommend tests that match your unique presentation. Every scan, study, or image is selected based on your symptoms and physical exam, never out of routine.

Personalized Plans Begin with Accurate Answers

An accurate diagnosis is the foundation of any successful treatment. Once we understand what’s causing your pain, we’ll develop a plan that’s tailored to your body, goals, and lifestyle. In many cases, non-surgical care is highly effective, and when surgery is needed, we help connect you with trusted spine specialists.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Chronic Back Pain

Surgery isn’t the only path to relief, and for most patients, it’s not the first. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, we prioritize non-surgical solutions that work. Our care focuses on relieving pain, calming inflammation, and restoring function, all with precision and personalization.

Focused on Relief Without Surgery

Chronic back pain can wear down your body and mind, but it doesn’t always require invasive procedures. At FLSPS, we offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments that are designed to deliver long-lasting relief while preserving your mobility and independence. Our physicians use a combination of diagnostics and evidence-based therapies to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Targeted Injections to Calm Inflammation

Inflammation is a major driver of back pain, particularly when nerves or joints are involved. Our image-guided injection therapies include:

  • Epidural Steroid Injections: These are often used when disc problems or sciatica cause nerve inflammation. The steroids reduce swelling around irritated nerves, improving both pain and mobility.
  • Medial Branch Blocks / Nerve Blocks: These injections temporarily numb the nerves around the facet joints. They help diagnose the source of pain and may also provide short-term relief, especially when used before radiofrequency ablation.

Each injection is performed using advanced imaging technology for precision, accuracy, and patient safety.

Ablation for Lasting Nerve Pain Relief

If nerve blocks confirm that certain nerves are causing your pain, radiofrequency ablation may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure uses heat to disable overactive pain signals from the facet joints.

  • Most patients experience relief that lasts for several months or longer.
  • There’s minimal downtime, and recovery is typically quick.
  • It’s often used when conservative methods haven’t worked, but before surgery is ever considered

Radiofrequency ablation can be a game-changer for patients with chronic facet-related pain.

Therapy and Movement-Based Healing

In many cases, restoring movement is part of healing. FLSPS works closely with trusted physical therapists to create programs that rebuild strength, improve posture, and enhance spine mobility.

We’ll recommend movement-based treatment if it aligns with your diagnosis and goals, and many patients benefit from combining therapy with injections for more complete relief.

Whole-Person Care with Real Results

At FLSPS, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Every treatment plan is customized, and every patient is heard. Our providers work with you and with your therapists to make sure your care is cohesive and effective.

In rare cases, back surgery may still be necessary. If that time comes, we’ll help you explore your options and guide you through every step with clarity and compassion. In the next section, we’ll explain how we support patients who need surgical evaluation.

When Should You Consider Surgery To Treat Back Pain?

At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, surgery is never the starting point and often, it’s not needed at all. We believe most patients can achieve meaningful relief through non-surgical care. But for a small number of cases where conservative treatments no longer provide relief, surgical consultation may be the next logical step.

Choosing to explore surgery isn’t a sign of failure. It’s part of making informed decisions about what your body needs, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Surgery Isn’t the First Step — and Often Not Needed

Our team is committed to helping patients find long-term relief without going under the knife. Most people who come to us for chronic back pain treatment in Florida experience significant improvements through injections, ablation, or therapy.

But in some situations, the anatomy or progression of a condition may require a surgical opinion. If that point comes, we’ll make sure the referral is thoughtful, timely, and in your best interest.

When a Referral Might Be Recommended

While rare, FLSPS may recommend a surgical consultation in cases such as:

  • Severe disc herniation that doesn’t respond to other treatments
  • Progressive nerve damage or spinal cord compression that threatens long-term function
  • Structural instability, such as advanced scoliosis or spondylolisthesis, that interferes with mobility or daily life

These referrals are never rushed. We take time to explain your imaging, symptoms, and options, ensuring you fully understand the “why” behind every recommendation.

Continuity of Care Before and After Surgery

Even if you see a spine surgeon, you’re still our patient, and we remain part of your care team. FLSPS helps coordinate pre-operative pain management, answer questions about recovery timelines, and support your healing process after surgery.

From initial conversations to post-op follow-up, we focus on your comfort, function, and quality of life. You’ll never be left to navigate the process alone.

Our goal is always your long-term comfort and function, no matter the path. Whether you continue with non-surgical care or explore surgery, we’ll make sure you’re supported with expert guidance and compassionate care.

Why Choose FLSPS for Back Pain Care in Tampa

Chronic back pain looks different for everyone, and your treatment should, too. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, we provide comprehensive care for every type of back pain, from upper spine stiffness to lower lumbar issues. Our team focuses on personalized, non-surgical care that’s proven to help patients feel better and move better.

You don’t have to settle for generic solutions or long waits. Real, lasting relief is closer than you think.

Comprehensive Care for Every Type of Back Pain

FLSPS doesn’t just focus on lower back pain; we treat the full spine. Whether your pain stems from your upper, middle, or lower back, we start by carefully evaluating the entire spine to avoid misdiagnosis or fragmented treatment. This whole-spine approach is one reason patients across Tampa trust us for chronic back pain treatment in Florida.

By identifying the true source of your discomfort, we can offer the most effective path to recovery, one that fits your unique ex

Led by Expertise: Dr. Azeem’s Experience

Your care begins with leadership you can trust. Dr. Nomen Azeem is a double board-certified pain management and anesthesiology physician known for his precise diagnostic skills, advanced treatment options, and compassionate care.

He takes time to listen and explain, ensuring every patient feels heard and understood. At FLSPS, you’ll never be treated like just another case.

A Non-Surgical First Philosophy That Works

Every care plan at FLSPS starts with the least invasive option that’s most likely to work. From image-guided injections to radiofrequency ablation and customized therapy coordination, we help you regain function without rushing to surgery.

We focus on how you feel and function, not just what shows on your MRI. And we remain committed to your progress long after your first visit.

Personalized, Modern, and Local

Our Tampa office is designed for comfort, efficiency, and healing. You’ll find a supportive team, modern equipment, and a calming atmosphere built around your needs. Whether you're seeking answers or long-term management, FLSPS is here to help — right in your community.

You don’t have to live with daily pain, not when there’s real help nearby. Reach out today to take the first step toward lasting relief with a team that’s fully invested in your recovery.

FAQs About Seeing a Back Pain Specialist in Tampa

Choosing the right back pain specialist and knowing when to seek help can feel overwhelming. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, we want to make that process easier. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from patients in the Tampa area.

Whether you’re new to treatment or looking for better options after failed attempts, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

What Kind of Doctor Should I See for Chronic Back Pain?

Answer: A pain management specialist, like Dr. Nomen Azeem at FLSPS, is trained to diagnose and treat chronic back pain using non-surgical and minimally invasive methods. While primary care providers can help with short-term pain, a specialist is better equipped to uncover underlying causes and provide targeted treatment plans.

How Do I Know If My Back Pain Is Serious Enough for a Specialist?

Answer: If your back pain has lasted more than a few weeks, affects your daily life, or isn’t improving with basic care, it’s time to see a specialist. Symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness, or shooting pain may also point to deeper nerve or spine issues that require expert evaluation.

What’s the Difference Between a Spine Surgeon and a Pain Management Doctor?

Answer: A spine surgeon performs operations on the spine, typically reserved for severe or structural conditions. A pain management doctor focuses on diagnosing pain and providing non-surgical relief through injections, nerve blocks, ablation, and other therapies, to help you avoid surgery altogether.

Can You Treat Back Pain Without Surgery?

Answer: Yes. Most chronic back pain can be effectively managed without surgery. At FLSPS, we use image-guided procedures, nerve-targeted treatments, and customized care plans to reduce pain and improve mobility, often with long-lasting results.

What Should I Expect During My First Visit to FLSPS?

Answer: You’ll meet with a specialist who will listen carefully to your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a physical evaluation. We may also review prior imaging or recommend further diagnostics. From there, we’ll explain your options and start building a treatment plan that fits your goals.

How Long Does It Take for Non-Surgical Treatments to Work?

Answer: Many patients begin to feel relief within days or weeks of treatment. Some therapies, like nerve blocks or injections, can provide immediate results, while others, such as regenerative medicine or ablation, may require multiple sessions for full effect. We’ll track your progress closely and adjust as needed.

Do I Need a Referral to See a Back Pain Specialist at FLSPS?

Answer: In most cases, no referral is needed, especially if you’re seeking chronic back pain treatment in Florida on your own. However, some insurance plans may require it, so we recommend calling our office to confirm your coverage details.

Will I Need Imaging Before Starting Treatment?

Answer: Not always. If you have recent imaging (like an MRI or X-ray), we’ll review it. If we suspect a condition that requires visual confirmation, we may order imaging to ensure your treatment is precise and effective. The decision depends on your symptoms, history, and physical exam findings.

Is It Normal for Back Pain to Come and Go?

Answer: Yes. Many forms of back pain, especially related to muscle strain or mild disc issues, can flare up and subside over time. However, recurring pain is still a sign that something deeper may be going on. Early evaluation can prevent long-term issues from developing.

What If I’ve Already Tried Physical Therapy or Injections Before?

Answer: We see many patients who haven’t found relief through standard treatments. At FLSPS, we take a more personalized, targeted approach using advanced diagnostics and therapies. Even if past treatments didn’t help, there are still options we can explore together.

Still have questions? You don’t have to figure this out alone. Reach out to our Tampa office, and we’ll help you understand your pain and your options, so you can move forward with confidence.

Don’t Wait - Get Expert Back Pain Relief in Tampa Today

If you’ve been living with persistent back pain, waiting won’t make it better, but the right care can. At Florida Spine & Pain Specialists in Tampa, we provide effective, non-surgical solutions designed to relieve pain and restore function for the long term.

From your first visit, you’ll be heard, supported, and treated with genuine care by a team that prioritizes your goals, not just your scans. We look at the full picture, whether your pain stems from the upper, middle, or lower spine, and build a plan that fits your life.

You don’t have to push through another day in pain. Call Florida Spine & Pain Specialists at (813) 333-1353 or schedule your visit online to start your path to relief today.