If you are suffering from back pain, it's crucial that you find a specialist that you trust. Finding an adequate back specialist takes time and research - not something you should rush.
Your general practitioner or family doctor can refer you to professionals who specialize in back pain, such as physiatrists, chiropractors and physical therapists.
Do I Need a Referral from My Primary Care Physician?
Except in cases of emergency, primary care physicians should be the primary doctor you visit for all of your health needs - this includes wellness visits and screenings.
Primary care doctors can also connect you with specialists that may provide additional treatment for your condition. Furthermore, they will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to meet your unique needs and goals.
When searching for a primary care physician, make sure they meet both your medical needs and preferences. Start your search via your health insurance website, or get recommendations from friends, family or co-workers.
Once you've selected several primary care physicians who interest you, prepare for your visit by making notes and asking the physician questions in advance of each visit. This way, you can ensure you ask those that matter most and get the most from each session.
When Should I See One?
Back pain is an extremely widespread health concern, affecting nearly eight in 10 Americans at some point during their lives. Its causes range from degenerative disc disease or arthritis to spinal stenosis and osteoporosis - so much so that most Americans at some point experience backache in some form or another.
Back pain typically subsides on its own or after several weeks of rest and home treatment; however, in certain instances you may need to see a specialist.
If your pain does not go away after two weeks or worsens with exercise or movement, or if numbness or tingling develops in arms and legs, it is wise to consult a spine specialist immediately.
Pain that does not respond to home treatments should be seen by a specialist as early intervention can prevent more serious medical conditions from developing later, including spinal cord injury and nerve damage. A back specialist can treat degenerative conditions like herniated discs, sciatica and arthritis effectively.
How Much Does It Cost to See a Back Specialist?
Most people will experience back pain at some point during their lives, and if it persists it may be wise to visit an orthopedic spine specialist. These physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions associated with the musculoskeletal system.
Spinal fusion surgery is one form of treatment in which two or more vertebrae in your back are fused together to heal as one single bone, in order to treat spinal instability or any pain arising from them rubbing together.
Vertebral augmentation is another procedure wherein a surgeon injects bone cement directly into damaged vertebrae to restore them and alleviate back pain. It's most frequently used to treat osteoporosis, where bones weaken over time and fracture easily.
Depending on the nature of their surgery, patients may require hospitalization following treatment. Your physician will discuss safe ways to enjoy daily activities while restricting certain heavy lifting until you've fully healed.
Types of Treatments
Back specialists provide various treatments to address back pain. Some may use surgery to address spinal cord or nerve problems while others offer nonsurgical alternatives like medications and physical therapy as viable solutions.
Doctors frequently recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as well as exercises and massage therapy that can reduce muscle tension while increasing flexibility.
Alternatively, if your pain does not improve after short-term treatments have failed, your specialist may suggest administering a nerve block injection. This process involves injecting either steroids or anesthetic into a spinal nerve that's causing discomfort.
If your pain persists despite trying these procedures, surgery may be required to alleviate symptoms. Surgery can treat herniated disks or spinal stenosis that have not responded to other therapies.
