Back Pain Specialist Q&A

Depending on the cause and severity of your back pain, treating back pain often involves the expertise of several different kinds of medical specialists. For an initial assessment, you may start by seeing your own primary care doctor. Your primary care doctor may then refer you to a range of different specialists, including:

• A physiatrist (a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation or PM&R)
• A neurologist (if your pain is caused by nerve problems)
• A psychologist (if your pain is caused or exacerbated by stress or other psychological issues)
• An orthopedic surgeon
• A rheumatologist (if your back pain is caused by joint problem like arthritis)
• A physical therapist and/or occupational therapist (to educate you to move and exercise in ways that don’t aggravate the pain but may improve it)
• A pain management specialist

Occurring anywhere from the ribcage to the buttocks, lower back pain is often the result of twisting, lifting, stretching or reaching. In most cases, upper and middle back pain does get better with time and rest. You should immediately visit the closest emergency department if your back pain is unrelenting and not relieved by rest. You should also seek emergency care if the pain is experienced with any of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Bladder or bowel incontinence (loss of control)

Back pain may signify a more serious issue for individuals with certain medical conditions. You should visit an emergency department if you have any of these medical conditions and are experiencing severe or chronic back pain:

• History of cancer
• Recent immunosuppression, either from surgery or prescribed drugs
• Any recent trauma or injury, especially in the elderly
• Prolonged use of steroids
• Intravenous drug use

Before trying any of these suggestions, be sure to consult your primary care physician to see if they are right for you.

• Exercise to Loosen Muscles — Although it may seem contrary to intuition to exercise when lower back pain is causing you grief, the right kind of movement can help eliminate the discomfort by stretching the muscles.

• Use Hot/Cold Treatments — Another effective method is hot and/or cold therapy. This remedy is an inexpensive option and is easy to implement. Certain types of aches and pain might be alleviated with the application of heat and/or cold.

• Stretch More — Stretching the back can help to reduce backaches. You can use a pull-up bar to help stretch your back, or a wall to help increase your range of motion.

• Get Better Shoes — The shoes you wear can definitely have an impact on the health of your back and may actually be one of the best remedies for lower back pain.

• Reduce Your Stress — Prolonged periods of high stress have negative consequences on various aspects of your health, including your back. Stress often has an effect on the way that you breathe, and can result in tension and straining of the back.

• Get Better Sleep — For keeping you in good shape, getting enough rest is another important strategy. You may become sleep deprived if you aren’t sleeping in an optimal position. Poor sleep posture can also cause aches.

If you or someone you know is struggling with back pain, come to American Pain and Wellness today! Our kind and caring professionals are experienced in treating back pain and can help you heal better! To speak with one of our specialists, contact our office today. Visit us online or simply call us to book an appointment.