Uncovering the Root: Dr. Jordan Sudberg on Health and Physical Assessment for Chronic Back Pain

Introduction: The Widespread Burden of Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention—and one of the most misunderstood conditions in modern healthcare. Affecting nearly 8 out of 10 adults at some point in their lives, chronic back pain can result in significant physical limitation, emotional distress, and financial burden.

But despite its prevalence, it often goes improperly diagnosed or ineffectively treated. That’s why Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a nationally recognized pain management specialist, places such a strong emphasis on comprehensive health and physical assessment when evaluating patients.

“Pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis,” says Dr. Sudberg. “Before we treat chronic back pain, we must first understand its root cause, contributing factors, and how it affects the individual as a whole.”

In this post, we explore the role of health history and physical examination in the evaluation of chronic back pain—and how a detailed, methodical approach leads to more successful outcomes.

What Is Chronic Back Pain?

Chronic back pain is defined as pain that persists for 12 weeks or longer, even after an initial injury or underlying cause has been treated. It can affect any part of the back but most commonly involves the lower back (lumbar spine).

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent aching or stiffness
  
• Shooting or stabbing pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica)
  
• Limited range of motion
  
• Muscle spasms
  
• Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting/standing
  

According to Dr. Sudberg, chronic back pain is not always linked to a single, obvious source like a herniated disc or injury. Often, it’s the result of multiple interacting factors—physical, psychological, and lifestyle-related—which is why thorough assessment is essential.

Step 1: Health History – Building the Patient Profile

A detailed medical history provides the foundation for identifying the origin of back pain and ruling out more serious conditions. Dr. Sudberg takes time to explore the full spectrum of a patient’s background, including:

1. Pain Characteristics

• Onset: When did the pain begin?
  
• Duration: How long has it lasted?
  
• Quality: Is the pain dull, sharp, burning, or radiating?
  
• Severity: On a scale of 0–10, how intense is the pain?
  
• Timing: Is the pain constant or intermittent?
  
• Aggravating/relieving factors
  

“Understanding the nature of the pain itself gives valuable clues about whether it’s musculoskeletal, neuropathic, or systemic,” says Dr. Sudberg.

2. Previous Injuries or Surgeries

A history of spinal trauma, back surgery, or sports injuries can shed light on structural damage or scar tissue formation that may be contributing to chronic pain.

3. Occupation and Activity Level

Jobs that involve heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, or repetitive movements are high-risk for chronic back pain. Sedentary lifestyles, poor posture, and lack of core strength are also major contributors.

4. Medical Conditions and Medications

Conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders may play a role. Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids) can also affect spinal health.

5. Mental and Emotional Health

Dr. Sudberg screens for psychological factors such as:

• Depression
  
• Anxiety
  
• Stress
  
• Sleep disturbances
  

“Chronic pain is both a physical and emotional experience,” he notes. “Ignoring one aspect can sabotage the entire treatment process.”

Step 2: Physical Examination – A Hands-On Approach

After gathering health history, Dr. Sudberg conducts a thorough physical exam tailored to back pain evaluation. Key components include:

1. Postural Assessment

• Observation of spinal alignment
  
• Identification of scoliosis, kyphosis, or lordosis
  
• Evaluation of gait and movement patterns
  

2. Palpation

• Gently pressing on muscles, vertebrae, and joints to identify areas of tenderness, inflammation, or spasms
  
• Noting asymmetries or rigidity in muscle tone
  

3. Range of Motion Testing

• Flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation of the spine
  
• Assessment of how movement affects pain
  

4. Neurological Exam

To detect nerve involvement:

• Reflex testing
  
• Muscle strength testing
  
• Sensory evaluation (light touch, pinprick, vibration)
  

“If a patient has numbness, tingling, or weakness, that tells us the nerves are being compressed or irritated,” explains Dr. Sudberg.

5. Specialized Orthopedic Tests

Tests like:

• Straight Leg Raise (SLR) for sciatica
  
• FABER test for sacroiliac joint dysfunction
  
• Slump test for neural tension
  These can help pinpoint the exact source of pain.
  

Step 3: Diagnostic Imaging – Confirming the Suspicions

While physical assessments offer critical insights, imaging is often used to confirm suspicions or rule out red flags. Dr. Sudberg may recommend:

• X-rays to view bone alignment or degeneration
  
• MRI to evaluate soft tissues, discs, and nerves
  
• CT scans for detailed bony structures
  
• EMG/Nerve conduction studies for assessing nerve damage
  

However, he warns against over-reliance on imaging alone.

“Many people have disc bulges or arthritis on imaging but no pain, while others have severe pain and minimal imaging findings. The clinical picture is always the priority.”

The Importance of a Comprehensive Assessment

Why is such a thorough evaluation process necessary? According to Dr. Sudberg, it allows for:

• Precision diagnosis (e.g., mechanical vs. neuropathic pain)
  
• Targeted treatment plans based on individual needs
  
• Avoidance of unnecessary procedures or medications
  
• Better patient outcomes and satisfaction
  

“A rushed exam leads to missed diagnoses and cookie-cutter treatments. Taking time to listen and observe is what separates a good pain doctor from a great one.”

Moving Forward: From Assessment to Action

Once the health and physical assessment is complete, Dr. Sudberg collaborates with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan, which may include:

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  
• Interventional procedures (e.g., epidural injections, nerve blocks)
  
• Medication management
  
• Regenerative therapies (e.g., PRP, stem cells)
  
• Psychological support and lifestyle modifications
  

He also tracks functionality and quality of life metrics, not just pain levels, to measure real progress.

Conclusion: Getting the Diagnosis Right with Dr. Jordan Sudberg

Chronic back pain can derail lives—but with a comprehensive assessment led by an experienced specialist like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, patients are given a clear roadmap toward relief and recovery.

By prioritizing both the science of medicine and the art of listening, Dr. Sudberg uncovers the root causes of pain and empowers patients to take control of their healing journey.

“Every back pain story is different,” he says. “It’s our job to listen, evaluate, and tailor solutions that restore not just function—but hope.”