Is your back pain keeping you from enjoying life? Do you feel lost without your normal routine and activities? Have you tried various home remedies and changes in habits?
If these questions make you think of a resounding yes, you might need to see a back pain doctor. When back pain is severe enough, you need a doctor’s intervention. It is worth delving into the discomfort to relieve yourself from chronic pain.
Read below to learn when you should see a doctor for back pain instead of simply trying home remedies.
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When the Pain Is Severe And/or Completely Disabling
The back pain doctor will likely prescribe pain medication. It could also be muscle relaxants, physical therapy, and/or epidural steroid injections. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Severe and/or disabling pain is often caused by a herniated disc. It could also be from degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis. If the pain is severe and/or completely disabling, seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
When Pain Comes With Neurological Symptoms
Experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness along with your back pain? See a doctor for treatment.
These symptoms may be indicative of a spinal cord injury. This makes prompt medical attention necessary. Imaging tests, such as an MRI, may be required to determine the cause of the symptoms.
Treatment for a spinal cord injury or other serious condition will involve specialists. It may even need surgery. In less serious cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy. Other forms of conservative treatment can also be recommended.
When the Pain Gets Worse With Rest or Persists for More Than a Week
Chronic back pain can be a debilitating condition that impairs quality of life. When the pain gets worse with rest or persists for more than a week, it is time to see a back pain doctor for treatment.
Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of lower back pain. These may include physical therapy, epidural injections, and surgery. A back pain doctor can help develop a treatment plan that is best suited to each individual patients needs.
When the Pain Includes Other Worrisome Symptoms
Are you experiencing weight loss, fever, or unexplained fatigue? See a back pain doctor and get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Medication, physical therapy, or even surgery may be recommended. But it depends on the severity of your symptoms. In some cases, the doctor may also refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or an orthopedist.
When You Have Tried All Conservative Measures
Have you tried over-the-counter pain relievers and home remedies and still no relief?
A back pain doctor can prescribe stronger medication. The doctor may also recommend physical therapy or other treatments.
Seeing a Back Pain Doctor
When to see a back pain doctor for treatment can vary depending on the severity of the pain. For example, if the pain is constant and interferes with daily activities, it may be time to see a doctor.
Additionally, if the pain comes with weakness, numbness, or tingling, seek medical help. Finally, if home treatments and over-the-counter medications are helping, schedule an appointment.
Looking for other useful tips for making decisions about your health? Take a look at more articles on our website before you leave.
