65 million adults in the US have experienced recent episodes of back pain. Persistent or chronic pain can even limit your everyday activities, affecting mobility and quality of life. Few people realize back pain is the sixth most costly condition in the US as well.

Rather than let back pain worsen your quality of life, consider reviewing your options for doctors. Here are a few tips for choosing back pain doctors. With treatment from a licensed professional, you can avoid missing work or developing a lasting disability. Read on to learn more.

Gather Referrals

Many people avoid choosing back pain doctors because they’re not sure which qualities to prioritize during their search. You can better determine your distinct needs by first speaking with friends and family members who have struggled with back pain, or are close to someone who suffered from back pain.

Consider that person’s situation and symptoms, too. For example, perhaps they developed back pain because of a car accident. Maybe you work with someone who is experiencing the same symptoms as you are now.

Ask about the back pain specialist they visit for treatment. Learn about the back pain treatments they’ve found effective, too.

Before speaking with your inner circle, consider developing a list of questions you want to ask. For example:

  • How long has the doctor specialized in back pain treatment?
  • How often do you visit them?
  • What services do they offer?
  • Do you find their services effective?
  • Would you recommend I visit another doctor instead?

If you’re unable to gather referrals from friends and family members, schedule an appointment with your general physician. Ask if they can refer you to a back pain specialist instead. They can provide options for doctors, along with insight into the type of back pain treatments you might need.

Then, you can use their recommendations to better narrow down your options.

Check Credentials

There are now over 204,550 pain management physicians in the US. Before choosing a physician, make sure they’re a licensed back pain doctor. Determine how long they’ve worked in the industry as well.

Reviewing each doctor’s credentials can give you peace of mind that they’re qualified to offer safe, effective forms of treatment.

Learn as much as you can about their professional history. For example, determine where they went to school. Confirm that the doctor graduated from an accredited medical institution.

Do a little extra digging to confirm that their license is up-to-date as well. If it’s not, you can mark that doctor off your list.

Otherwise, determine if the doctor has any complaints or medical malpractice suits filed against them. If you find evidence of complaints, consider it a red flag. Look for a back pain specialist you can trust to offer the best course of treatment instead.

Don’t forget to look for an experienced back pain specialist. Find someone with years of hands-on experience helping patients.

Consider Their Specialization

As you narrow down your options for doctors, consider your unique circumstances.

First, make sure the doctor specializes in treating patients with back pain. Next, consider the back pain they help treat. For example, maybe you’re struggling with:

  • Chronic pain
  • Lower back pain
  • Nerve pain

Think about what’s causing your back pain, too. For example, maybe repetitive motions at work caused your back pain to develop, or perhaps a car accident or sporting incident caused your injuries.

Find someone who specializes in treating the type of back pain you’re experiencing. Their specialization and experience could speak to their ability to help. These back pain doctors will have an easier time helping you manage or treat your symptoms.

Review Their Services

Once you find a few back pain doctors in the area, review their services. Consider what type of back pain treatments they offer.

For example, do they offer:

  • Chiropractic care (spinal decompression therapy, spinal manipulation, etc.)
  • Holistic remedies
  • Medication (corticosteroid injections, over-the-counter, prescription-strength, etc.)
  • Minimally-invasive surgery
  • Laser spine surgery
  • Physical therapy (hot/cold therapy, strength-building exercise, etc.)

You can learn more about back pain treatments here.

Consider scheduling a consultation appointment with a licensed back pain doctor with a comprehensive list of treatments. Then, discuss the symptoms you’ve experienced recently.

The doctor will take the time to consider the root cause of your symptoms before determining an ideal treatment plan. This way, they can better recommend back pain treatments based on your needs. Developing a customized treatment plan can ensure the best possible outcome.

Ask for References

During your consultation appointment, ask the back pain specialist if they can provide references or reviews. Try to speak with two or three of their previous patients if you can. Then, ask each patient about their experience with the doctor.

You can also begin reading online reviews by checking the doctor’s Google, Yelp, or Healthgrades.com listings. Reviews can help you determine if the doctor is the right fit based on your needs.

If you find many complaints against the doctor, keep searching.

Check Your Coverage

Before choosing a doctor, consider your insurance coverage. Determine if the office accepts your specific insurance plan.

You can reach out to your insurance provider to determine what’s covered under your policy, too. This step will help you avoid receiving a massive, unexpected bill after your appointment.

Use These Tips for Choosing Back Pain Doctors Today

Don’t make the mistake of choosing a back pain doctor without a plan. Instead, use these simple tips to find a licensed back pain doctor you can trust. With these tips, you’ll have peace of mind you’re making an informed choice.

Then, you can work with your doctor to develop a customized treatment plan based on your needs.

Ready to schedule your consultation appointment? We can’t wait to help.

Contact us today to get started.