Questions to ask your doctor about back pain

About back pain

What is the likely cause of my back pain?

When is an x-ray or MRI scan needed? Do I need other tests?

What should I expect to happen with my type of back pain? Will it go away? If so, how soon? Will I have chronic (long-term) low back pain?

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Taking care of your back at home and work

What over-the-counter pain medicines can I take?

What else can I do to relieve the pain while sleeping, sitting, driving, or working at a desk? Is it better to stay active while I am resting?

What can I do to prevent injuries doing sports?

What types of activities are more likely to cause back pain? Is it okay to continue doing the sports that I am doing?
How much sports activity is too much?
What sports activities may be easier on my back?
Can certain exercises help prevent sports injuries?

What type of changes do I need to make at work?

Are there limits to how much I should lift? What is the best way to lift heavier objects?
How can I have my desk, chair, or computer set up differently?
Are there stretches or exercises I can do during the day?

What should I do about feeling stressed or sad?

Treatments for back pain

What type of doctors or other health care providers should I see about my back pain?

How can my primary care provider help?
Should I see a physical therapist?
What is a sports medicine doctor? A physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor?
When do I need to see a spine surgeon?

What other medicines are available to help relieve my back pain?

What other treatments besides surgery can I try:

Injections?
Exercise?
Acupuncture?
Massage therapy?

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Review Date: 4/3/2018

Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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