What If I Dont Want Surgery For My Back Pain
Fortunately, most people with back pain dont need surgery. We usually take a conservative approach first, using a wide variety of nonsurgical spine treatments, said Dr. Guo. For example, I might send you to physical therapy or chiropractic therapy. I might recommend medications such as anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or some nerve-pain medications. We offer injection therapy, including epidural injections, joint injections, and nerve blocks and ablation if your back pain fails to improve with the conservative treatments. Chances are, one of these approaches will help reduce your back pain and improve your function and quality of life.
What Is A Back And Spine Pain Doctor Called
The decision to seek treatment for your chronic lower back pain will alleviate the stiffness, soreness, and lack of mobility that affects your daily life. At Pain Treatment Specialists, a back and spine pain doctor is called an interventional pain specialist. Our team works with patients to explore minimally-invasive, yet highly effective cutting-edge treatments designed to avoid surgery and return them to the activities they love.
Also Check: Aleve Lower Back Pain
Ix Referred Pain To The Lumbar Spine
Pain in the area of the lumbar spine may be due to important problems that are actually unrelated to the back.Referred pain occurs when a problem in one place in the body causes pain in another place. The pain travels down a nerve. For example, a pinched nerve in the neck may cause pain that is felt in the arm or hand. Sources of referred pain may include abdominal aneurysm , tubal pregnancy, kidney stones, pancreatitis, and colon cancer. Clues to these maladies include pain that waxes and wanes over a short period, with frequent peaks of intense pain, weight loss, abnormalities found during abdominal exam, and trace amounts of blood in the urine.
Read Also: What To Take For Uti Back Pain
Cracked Worn And Broken Teeth
If the muscles, teeth, and jaw joints do not work properly, there is an imbalance in the bite. When your bottom and top teeth come together, there will be excess pressure on some teeth because of misalignment. It causes cracked, worn, and broken teeth in general. Additionally, patients with jaw misalignment disorder try to grind or clench their teeth and cause broken teeth as well. If you have a regular checkup with your dentist, they will tell you if they noticed the symptoms of crack from grinding and clenching.
What Type Of Doctor Should I See For Back Pain
Until youve had to deal with back pain, it can be hard to understand just how much of a toll it can take on your daily routines. Back pain can make it difficult to do things as simple as standing up, walking around, and climbing stairs. If the time has come to seek treatment for ongoing back pain, you may be wondering where to turn. Of course, if youre experiencing a life- or limb-threatening condition, youll want to call 911 or get to the closest emergency room as soon as possible. But for non-emergency conditions, your best bet may be to consult with an orthopedist.
Many types of chronic back pain can be treated by orthopedists, preferably those who focus on the spine. Orthopedists are doctors who specialize in conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, which encompasses the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and nerves. While some of these physicians practice general orthopedics, others focus on a subspecialty, with some devoting their entire career to conditions affecting the spine.
You May Like: How Can I Reduce My Lower Back Pain
Specialists Who Treat Back Pain
There are many types of health practitioners that care for patients with spinal conditions, and each has a slightly different role. Selection of the most appropriate type of health professional – or team of health professionals – largely depends on the patient’s symptoms and the length of time the symptoms have been present.
The different types of health professionals who treat back pain tend to have varied training and interests. While it is common to start off with a primary care provider , if the patient’s back pain is resistant to initial treatment then the services of a spine specialist may be necessary.
How Common Is Back Pain
If youre like most Americans, youll probably have back pain at some point in your life. Four in five adults suffer from low back pain. Luckily, most back pain goes away within one to two weeks. But if your pain is long-term or chronicand if you have certain symptoms with your low back painyou may want to see a spine specialist.
Also Check: What Are Some Good Stretches For Lower Back Pain
What Happens When I Visit A Back Doctor
We gather a full medical history of your back problems and perform detailed physical examinations, said Dr. Guo. That includes checking for tenderness, spine range of motion, strength, sensation, and reflexes. Depending on your symptoms, we may perform provocative tests to find out what triggers your pain. We may order imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. We may order electromyography and a nerve conduction study, which assess whether you have muscle and/or nerve problems that may cause your symptoms. We use all the information to help identify the cause of your back pain and associated symptoms, and provide the most appropriate treatments for you.
Diagnosing Your Hip Pain
If you do decide that seeing a hip surgeon is the right course of action, your doctor may start you off trying to gather a little more information. They may ask you about your medical history, genetics, activity and fitness levels, and possibly just try to get to know you as a person.
They may set you up for some imaging work such as an x-ray or MRI. This will help your hip doctor gain insight into what that hip really looks like
Recommended Reading: What Can Cause Lower Back Pain When Standing
When & How To Seek Medical Care
If low back pain lasts for longer than one to two weeks, seek medical care. First, make an appointment with your primary care physician.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following symptoms are present in addition to back pain:
- Severe abdominal pain
Dont Miss: Mayo Clinic Low Back Pain Exercises
Why You Should See A Neurologist
The cause of back pain can be different for each patient and even more challenging to determine. Some patients need only the intervention of a general practitioner. Together, the doctor and patient can work on non-surgical treatment to stop the pain. If the source of pain is too complicated, a neurologist needs to get involved. A neurologist specializes in treating nerves in the brain and spine. This doctor also has the tools available to assess back pain like an x-Ray and MRI. However, neurologists can go a step further. Using tools like an EMG, the neurologist can check nerve health and muscle weakness with fantastic detail. Detailed feedback makes a neurologist the highest resource to test, diagnose, and treat back issues.
Also Check: What Causes Lower Back Pain That Goes Down The Leg
How Do I Make An Appointment
We have multiple locations throughout New York and New Jersey, enabling you to find one that is convenient. To book an appointment with one of our clinics, simply fill in the online form, or give us a call at 767-3227 . We look forward to hearing from you, and helping you to live a life without back pain!
Chiropractic Care For Back Pain
It may take several types of tests including x-rays, MRIs, and blood tests, to determine the exact cause of your back pain.
And you may need more than one expert managing your back pain.
It really just depends on your specific situation and the amount of damage that has occurred in your spine.
But for back sprains, strains, and even herniated discs, a visit to your local chiropractor may be all it takes to start feeling better.
Recommended Reading: Which Purple Mattress Is Best For Back Pain
What Is A Back Doctor Called Orthopedic
As orthopedic surgeons, orthopedic spine doctors concentrate primarily on repairing problems of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal anatomy. These surgeons spend every day assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with spine-related injuries and conditions, including: Degenerative disc diseases. Herniated
When should I see an orthopedic for back pain?
It would be wise to get a consultation with a doctor specializing in orthopedics if the pain your back doesnt alleviate after 7 days if the pain starts to spread to the lower half of your body, causing loss of feeling or tingling sensations in your toes or legs, and if you notice that you have stopped doing normal day
When to see a doctor for back pain?
Signs You Need To Visit An Orthopedic Specialist
If youve already spoken to your primary care physician about your back pain and have not found relief, you could make an appointment to discuss this and request a referral. Or, you could search for an orthopedic specialist directly through your network to save time and money.
Regardless of whether you request a referral or seek help directly, below are the top signs that its time to consult an orthopedic specialist.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Bad Lower Back Pain
When The Hip Is The Usual Suspect
Surprisingly, hip problemsusually produce groin pain on the affected side. Thats because the actualjoint of the hip is near the spine.
Groin pain is a hip issue until proven otherwise, says back pain specialist Russell DeMicco, DO. Pain above the belt line is not a hip issue.
The most common cause ofhip pain is osteoarthritis of the hip joint. You may have hip arthritis if:
- Pain is in your groin.
- Discomfort comes and goes, becoming more frequent over time.
- Pain worsens with standing, walking and activity, and is relieved by rest.
- You feel stiff.
- You walk with a limp.
Avascular necrosis, or AVN,is a serious condition marked by death of hip bone at the joint. The pain isusually worse and far more constant than in osteoarthritis. People come to mesaying, My hip is killing me, says Dr. Murray.
Dont Miss: Is Motrin Good For Back Pain
When To See A Doctor For Lower Back Pain
While most symptoms of acute lower back pain will subside on their own, it is recommended to see a doctor if your symptoms shift to those of chronic lower back pain. Chronic lower back pain is usually classified as pain lasting longer than 12 weeks. Its necessary to see a doctor as soon as possible to the 12-week mark because symptoms can escalate quickly. Without treatment, chronic lower back pain can progressively reduce your quality of life, impacting your mobility and functionality.
A specialist skilled in dealing with lower back pain can help evaluate your symptoms and determine the correct course of action. Treatments for lower back pain are different for everyone, and are normally determined by evaluating symptoms of pain, your medical history, and potential cause of pain.
Chiropractic treatment. Shiatsu massage, Back Pain trigger points. Physiotherapy for male patient, Sport Injury Recovery
Recommended Reading: How To Relieve Lower Back Pain Immediately
What Is The Main Cause Of Sciatica
When the sciatic nerve is pinched, it can cause sciatica. This condition typically results from a herniation of the spine or an overgrowth of bone known as bone spurs on the spinal bones. Tumors can have a small impact on the nerves more frequently than others. Diabetes, for example, can damage the nerve.
Sciatica: What You Should Know
You must keep track of your sciatica symptoms in order to remain healthy. It will allow you to track your progress and make informed decisions about how to treat your condition based on any changes you notice. Compression of the sciatic nerve is one of the causes of sciatica. A variety of factors, such as arthritis, herniation, and tumors, can compress the nerve in the back of the leg, resulting in a compressed nerve. It usually takes a month or two for sciatica to resolve itself on its own, but if it does not, it is important to see a doctor. If the sciatica is caused by a herniated disc, surgery may be the best option. If the sciatica is caused by arthritis or a tumor, you may need to take medications or injections to relieve the pain.
Do Orthopedic Doctors Treat Nerve Pain
Orthopedic doctors can help reduce pain
This includes muscles, nerves, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other connective tissue. There are many musculoskeletal conditions and injuries that can cause pain, and often, orthopedic specialists can help reduce or eliminate pain.
Recommended Reading: What Should You Do When Your Lower Back Hurts
Also Check: Can Depression Cause Pain In Back
When Back Pain Is Serious: How To Tell What To Do
Most adults will experience back pain at some point. One of the most common medical complaints is lower back pain.
Typically, back pain is muscular in nature and short-term, often caused by strain from lifting heavy objects or sudden movement, says UH orthopedic specialist Zachary Gordon, MD. More serious back and spine problems may be caused by nerves, joints and discs, he says.
Most back pain will resolve on its own within a few weeks. Home care, including over-the-counter pain relievers, heat, ice and rest can help. If back pain doesnt subside and is disrupting daily activities or sleep, you should see a doctor. A primary care physician may help in cases where pain is caused by strain or mild injury.
You Have Unexplained Weight Loss
If you experience sudden weight loss that can’t be explained by diet and lifestyle changes, then you should always pay attention to what your body is telling you. This is especially true when the unexplained weight loss is accompanied by back pain. See your doctor to rule out the possibility of a more severe condition, such as an infection or tumor.
Recommended Reading: What To Do When You Have Severe Lower Back Pain
Signs You Need To See A Hip Doctor
Have you ever experienced sudden hip pain that had you reaching to your side? Or maybe you have that slight aching sensation that never seems to go away. Whatever your hip pain is like, theres a good chance that you need to see a hip doctor that specializes in these sorts of conditions. We asked our favorite hip specialists in Nashville, TN this very question when is it time for you to see a hip surgeon?
Recommended Treatment Options By Neurologists
Neurologists have the advantage of knowing the health of the patients nerves and muscles. In many cases, acute pain is due to strains, muscle damage, or nerve damage. This means the neurologist can then use non-surgical options to treat the condition. The doctor will often recommend physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and rest. Neurologists also encourage techniques like chiropractic care or biofeedback therapy. If the pain persists, medication, and steroid injections come next. With consistent work, acute back pain can clear up.
Read Also: What Does It Mean When Your Lower Left Back Hurts
Contact Citrus Spine To Discuss Your Back Pain
If you have experienced any of the warning signs above, it may be time to schedule an appointment with specialists at Citrus Spine. Our board-certified healthcare providers will listen to your concerns and review non-surgical or surgical options with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
If you are experiencing back pain symptoms, you should never ignore or try to suffer through the pain. Always consult your doctor and have open conversations. If you are not satisfied with your doctor or require specialized care, it is recommended to get a second opinion from a back pain specialist.
Dr. Toumbis is a board certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in cervical, thoracic and lumbar surgery. He received his undergraduate degree in Biology from New York University in 1987, then continued on to receive his Masters in Natural Sciences as well as a PhD in Experimental Pathology from State University of New York at Buffalo. He completed his medical degree at Wayne State University School of Medicine with a distinction in Biomedical Research. After moving to Florida to complete his internship and residency in orthopedics at the University of Florida Shands Hospital, he went on to pursue a fellowship at Cleveland Clinics Florida Spine Institute. He moved to Citrus County and has been in private practice since 2005.
Dont Miss: How Do You Get Lower Back Pain
You Have Experienced A Traumatic Injury
If you have recently been in a car accident, experienced a fall, or any other type of injury that resulted in back pain, you should visit a doctor immediately. The impact from traumatic injuries can cause the discs inside your spine to bulge, herniate or rupture. In cases where discs may be damaged or injured, a back pain specialist can review all options, including minimally-invasive procedures, to treat your back injury.
You May Like: How To Relieve Lower Back Pain Due To Herniated Disc
Nerve Pain In The Arm
An issue with the nerves supplying the areas of the arm, particularly the fingers and hands, is frequently the source of arm pain. The brachial plexus, which stretches from the spine to the shoulders, arms, forearms, and hands, is a group of nerves that regulate the muscles of the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand.
Sensations That Might Indicate A Medical Emergency
1. Sharp pain rather than a dull ache: This could indicate a torn muscle or ligament, or a problem with an internal organ in the back or side.2. Radiating pain: This pain moves or shoots to the glutes or legs, which could indicate a nerve compression condition.
3. Sudden weakness in the legs: Limb weakness can be caused by compressed nerves in the spine due to conditions like sciatica or spinal stenosis. However, sudden leg weakness could also indicate a stroke.4. Incontinence: Back pain paired with inability to control the bowels or bladder might be a sign of serious nerve compression or a spine infection, such as discitis or meningitis.5. Numbness or pins and needles in the groin or glutes: This is known as saddle anesthesia and is also a sign of a serious nerve or spine condition.
If you have leg weakness, incontinence, and numbness together, you might have cauda equina syndrome, a serious illness characterized by spinal cord nerve damage. This is a medical emergency, and patients usually need surgery immediately to decompress the nerves and reduce permanent damage.
Related reading: Get help for back, neck, and leg pain caused by spinal stenosis
Also Check: Can Early Pregnancy Cause Back Pain
