“What is the best doctor to see for back pain?”
I have back pain and want to see a doctor. What is the best doctor to see for back pain?
7 Answers
You can start with your primary care doctor. My opinion is the best doc to see first (or after your pcp) is a physiatrist or physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist (my specialty). After an interview and exam they can determine your diagnosis or cause of your pain, refer you for physical therapy, prescribe pain medications, or depending on their skill sets and your needs may perform procedures to help relieve pain faster. If 2 to 3 months of PT is ineffective then other specialists or studies are needed. If you need further assistance from me please visit my social media pages or website: www.chronicpainrescue.com
A physiatrist or pain medicine/rehabilitation doctor can help with back pain, prior to surgical consultation with a spine surgeon.
Start with Orthopedics
Osteopathic doctors do a great job of evaluating & knowing when to get concerned.
A Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialist.
It depends. From Injury - Acute Pain - ER/Chronic Pain PCP - Check for UTI, Lab Work, Get X-rays, Possible PT or Referral to Physiatrist - Poss Epidural as indicated after MRI/Spine Surgeon as indicated etc./Radicular Pain, Advanced DJD, Acute Disc Herniation.
Most back pain will be resolved with stretching, physical therapy, home exercise program. It depends if your back pain is truly musculature lower back pain or referred pain (kidney stones, bowel/constipation, etc.) Occasionally, one may have a pinched nerve or disc herniation or fracture or tumor causing back pain. Your primary care doctor could start your evaluation and refer you to a physical therapist or spine surgeon if needed.
Mark Burt M.D., Triangle Physicians
Mark Burt M.D., Triangle Physicians
