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Selecting a Back Pain Doctor

Spinal cord injury victims suffering from an initial traumatic injury should not move, direct someone to immediately contact 911, follow instructions and be ambulanced to the nearest Trauma I Medical Center.

Back pain generally, different types of back pains, or lower back pain may all require a unique approach. You may elect to see your Internal medicine doctor first who may be most likely to know where to start for your diagnosis and treatment. Internal medicine doctors are like the quarterbacks at football games who pass the ball to the next carrier when necessary. Alternatively, chiropractors, chronic pain therapists, holistic therapists, massage therapists or advice from friends may be the direction you take. Yet, you may not want to limit your health access if you may truly require added expertise to properly diagnose and treat your back pain. Orthopedic Back Specialists (also known as Spine Surgeons) may offer the additional expertise you need to help ensure a smooth recovery.

As Dr. Nick Shamie, leading orthopedic specialist of Santa Monica California adds, “Too often non-surgical patients do not arrive at an orthopedic surgeon’s office until after they have been frustrated by ongoing temporary relief types of treatment.  By this time, the situation may be more serious,  more invasive treatment may be required because of this delay and more long term harm may result.” Check out what you need to know about spine surgeons.

The most conservative and least invasive approach to treatment possible is the rule of thumb in medicine, such as, pain management, chiropractic care, and/or physical therapy. Once you engage in therapy, within 5 to 6 weeks, you may see improvement. If time progresses over five to six weeks with consistent or episodic neck or back pain, your treatment plan may be optimized in a more timely fashion by an orthopedic surgeon. In fact, you may be more likely to qualify for the least invasive orthopedic approach if your condition has not progressed and you qualify.

Next Visit, Q and A for Your Back Doctor and Neck Doctor

It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition.