What Type of Doctor Should You See for Back Pain?
Back pain is a very common complaint these days. It can be caused by a variety of factors and can affect people in many different ways.
Here are a few reasons why you may find yourself experiencing back pain:
- Repetitive motion
- Heavy lifting
- Lifting improperly
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Ageing
- Underlying medical conditions
Back pain can be difficult to live with, but seeing a doctor can help.
What Type of Doctor Do You See for Back Pain?
The following list of doctors will help you gather a better understanding of how each practitioner is able to address back pain. This will then help you decide which doctor is best to see about your back pain.
1. General Practitioners/Family Doctors
General practitioners are trained to have a wide variety of knowledge on medical issues. Speaking to your family doctor, who knows your individual medical history, will help you understand where your back pain is coming from.
Depending on your situation, general practitioners may prescribe medication therapy and/or physical therapy. They may also refer you to a specialist who will be able to better treat your specific condition.
Not everyone has a family doctor or regular general practitioner, and that’s okay. WalkInVirtualClinics is a great resource for people who need trusted medical advice on how to address their back pain.
2. Emergency Room Doctors
If your back pain is sudden, severe, and/or creating additional health issues, then you need to go to the emergency room to seek immediate medical care. But you should only do so when absolutely necessary.
Most often, ER doctors are able to treat back pain caused by an accident or trauma. They may also refer you to specialists for long-term treatment.
3. Pediatricians
If a child is experiencing back pain, they should see a pediatrician. These doctors are familiar with the most likely causes for juvenile back pain and will be able to either treat or refer their patients to a specialist.
4. Orthopedists
Orthopedist doctors are specially trained in musculoskeletal system functions. Their training enables them to seek the best healing treatment for your back pain.
5. Rheumatologists
For patients whose back pain is caused by inflammation and/or arthritis, a rheumatologist is the best fit for them. Their specialty is in treating inflammatory pain.
6. Neurologists/Neurosurgeons
Sometimes you might be referred to a neurologist for your back pain. This is because spinal and back issues can be linked to neurological disorders and/or injuries that cause complications in the nervous system. Neurologists can treat the underlying condition, and consequently, heal your back pain.
7. Holistic and Osteopathic Specialists
Both osteopaths and chiropractors fall under this category. Osteopaths are physicians who have additional training with regards to the musculoskeletal system. They are also well acquainted with how lifestyle changes can treat various ailments such as back pain.
Chiropractors are able to adjust your spine into its proper alignment. These adjustments can provide immediate relief, and regular appointments can help maintain spinal health.
