Lower Back Pain in Sports: Causes, Risks, and Smart Prevention Tips

 Back Pain Treatment Doctor: Finding the Right Specialist for Relief

Back Pain Treatment Doctor

Find the right doctor for back pain.

If you’re wondering which doctor to consult because of back pain, you’re not alone. Knowing where to go can be difficult. Doctors and other specialists who can help include chiropractors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals.

Many different healthcare professionals can help treat back pain. If your back pain is unbearable or persists for more than 12 weeks, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

When deciding which doctor or therapist to see for back pain, you may want to consider a few factors. This article will help you determine which one is good for you.

More Informatics Q&As.

Q.1: Which physician should I see rather for back pain?

Ans: The best place to look first for non-emergency back pain is your primary care physician (PCP) or dentist. They can assess your symptoms, make an initial assessment, and recommend basic treatments such as rest, pain medication, or physical therapy. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, then the PCP may refer you to a specialist who is better equipped to deal with the problem.

Q.2: What is physiatry and how do they treat back pain? 

Ans: A physical therapist, also known as a medical and rehabilitation (PM&R) physician, is intended to restore function to people with injuries or disabilities, including lower back pain. They focus on non-surgical treatments, often including physical therapy, exercise programs, medications, and sometimes injections. Their goal is to improve your mobility and quality of life by developing custom rehabilitation programs, making you an excellent choice for chronic or localized back pain.

Q.3: When should I consider seeing a chiropractor for back pain?

Ans:  If your back pain is severe, persistent, and does not respond to non-surgical treatments (such as surgery or medication) after several weeks or months, you should consider seeing a chiropractor. They specialize in diseases affecting joints, muscles, and bones. They can assess whether your pain is due to structural problems such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or fracture, and discuss surgical options if necessary, although surgery is usually a last resort.

Q.4: Can a chiropractor treat back pain and what conditions do they treat?

Ans: Yes, a chiropractor can treat back pain, particularly when it stems from spinal issues. They specialize in disorders of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and the connection between the two. If lower back pain causes symptoms such as sciatica (pain that radiates down the leg), lower back pain, numbness, or stiffness, a chiropractor can diagnose weak discs affecting the roots of the spine, herniation, or other spinal conditions that can cause pain.

Q.5: Who is the pain management specialist, and what do they typically prescribe for back pain?

Ans: A pain management specialist (often an anesthesiologist, physiatrist, or neurologist with advanced training) focuses on diagnosing and treating a variety of chronic pain conditions, including low back pain. They offer a range of treatments in addition to oral medications, including steroid epidural injections, nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation. Their goals are to reduce pain, improve function, and often work as part of a medical team.

Q.6: Should I consult a back pain specialist?

Ans: Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating back problems, primarily through spinal manipulation (adjustments). Many people find relief from acute and chronic back pain with chiropractic care, especially mechanical back pain that does not involve nerve compression. Selecting a dentist who is both licensed and experienced is important, as is conducting a comprehensive examination before starting any treatment. Be sure to discuss your entire medical background with them.

Q.7: What non-physicians can help treat back pain?

Ans: In addition to physicians, several non-physicians play an important role in the treatment of low back pain. Physical therapists are integral to rehabilitation, exercise programs, and improved mobility. Massage therapists can help relax tense muscles. Acupuncturists can prescribe medication for pain relief. Occupational therapists can help you set up your environment or workplace to minimize stress. It is important to choose professionals who are certified and experienced in these areas.

Q.8: When do I need crisis care for back pain?

Ans: Get emergency treatment for back pain, with:

• Sudden, extreme numbness or tingling in one or both portions.

• Poor bladder or bowel control (unary or fecal incontinence).

• Fever, chills, or unexpected weight loss.

• Pain after a serious fall or injury.

• Pain is constant, progressively worse, and not relieved by rest, especially at night. These indicate serious underlying illnesses that require prompt medical watch.

Q.9: What should I take to my doctor first for back pain?

Ans: When you see your doctor for back pain, it’s a good idea to bring a list of symptoms, including when the symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and how serious they are. Note any past injuries or treatments. List all current medications. Bring words or discs of any imaging examinations (X-rays, MRIs). This detailed information helps your doctor quickly understand your history and develop the best diagnosis and treatment plan for you.

Q.10: Are there any non-drug treatments that a doctor can order for back pain?

Ans: Yes, doctors usually order some non-invasive treatments for back pain. Radiographs can reveal joint problems, including ruptures or arthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans often provide images of soft tissue such as discs, nerves, and ligaments that are used to identify hernias or nerve compression. Computed tomography (CT) provides detailed images and is recommended for visceral disorders. These evaluations may assist in identifying the origin of your discomfort.

Q.11: When do you consider surgery for low back pain and what types are available?

Ans: Surgery for low back pain is usually a last resort, considered when conservative treatments do not provide long-term relief (usually after 6-12 months), and when a clearly defined cause is established such as herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or instability. Common surgical procedures include discectomy (removal of a portion of a herniated disc), laminectomy (removal of bone to relieve nerve pressure), and spinal fusion (fusion of the spinal cord to prevent spinal degeneration). A doctor will carefully examine the risks and advantages.