Latest Articles by Lee H. Riley III, M.D.

For Back Pain, Exercise May Be Best
When you have low back pain, exercise may be the last thing you want to do, but it's likely your best bet for finding relief.

Does Your Leg Hurt When You Cough?
Find out why this question could help you get the right diagnosis and treatment for your back pain.

Blood Test May Help Your Back Pain Diagnosis
Researchers have found evidence that levels of key substances in the blood may serve as useful markers for diagnosing low back pain.

The Most Common Causes of Back Pain
The exact cause of back pain is not easy to determine. Fortunately, about 90 percent of cases improve on their own. Here's what you should know.

How To Find Relief For Back Spasms
Sudden, shooting back pain can be caused by a spasm. Learn what triggers back spasms, and the treatments you can use to find relief.

What Causes a Herniated Disc?
About 10 percent of people have back pain from a herniated disc at some point in their lives. Learn what causes this painful condition.

What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is a common cause of back pain that can happen when spinal stenosis or a herniated disk irritates the sciatic nerve.

Surgery Options for a Herniated Disc
If you need surgery for a herniated lumbar disc, diskectomy, microdiskectomy, or spinal fusion may be the right choice.