Which Specialist Should You Consult for Back Pain?

Back pain is a prevalent ailment; experts estimate that approximately 80% of adults will experience this discomfort at some point in their lives. While low back pain that doesn’t wane might necessitate medical attention, it doesn’t always mean you should consult a specialist immediately.

Your journey to relief can start with a primary care doctor or a chiropractor. They can evaluate and treat the situation. However, persistent pain or unusual symptoms might call for a specialist’s expertise, such as a neurologist, rheumatologist, or spine surgeon. For comprehensive care encompassing common issues like muscle strains, herniated discs, to more severe cases like spinal deformities and tumors, institutions like Rush offer a specialized spine and back team.

Dr. Sokunbi, a spine surgeon at HSS, specializes in degenerative spine conditions, deformities, and traumatic spinal issues. But, it’s essential to remember that back pain is a common ailment affecting many. It’s crucial to discern when to consult a specialist and when to attempt remedies at home. Wondering about the right doctor for back pain? Depending on your symptoms and the absence of a discernible injury, starting with a physiatrist – a physical medicine specialist – or a pain management doctor might be beneficial.

It’s worth noting that an astounding 85% of individuals suffer from back pain so severe that they seek a doctor’s consultation in their lifetime. Yet, despite its prevalence, identifying the exact cause remains elusive. For further reading and insights, consider exploring the articles on HSS and Harvard Health.