Back pains and other back problems are some of the most common complaints that people have when they visit their doctor. In fact, these health conditions are so common that 8 out 10 individuals experience them at one point in their lives. If you are one of these individuals, you may be asking this question: who treats spine problems? There are actually many different types
of health professionals who treat such problems, with each of them having certain skills and particular specializations. To help you know the right type of doctor to consult, here is a list of those who specialize in spine problems.
1. Neurosurgeon (Spine Surgeon)
Neurosurgeons specialize in neurological health problems including spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spine infections, spinal deformities, vascular diseases, spinal stenosis, and spondylishtesis among many others. They also utilize many
of the diagnostic tools and treatment options that neurologists do with their patients. Some examples of surgical technologies used by these particular spine doctors include spinal fusion, radiosurgery, khyphoplasty, endoscopy, and laminectomy.
2. Orthopedic Surgeon (Spine Surgeon)
An orthopedic surgeon is one who consults with patients suffering from problems in their musculoskeletal system. Some examples of such problems include broken bones, back pain, torn ligaments, arthritis, deformities of the spine and the limb, and dislocations. These spine doctors are very skill ed when it comes to diagnosing spine disorders or injuries. Their medical advice
may either be nonsurgical or surgical. The treatments that they commonly provide include discectomy, spinal fusion, joint replacement, laminectomy, and kyphoplasty.
3. Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)
A physiatrist is also an answer to your question: ‘who treats spine problems?’ Their patients include those who have suffered from strokes or those who are diagnosed with chronic illnesses, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, musculoskeletal injuries, as well as acute and chronic pain. They also often coordinate the rehabilitation of patients who require long-term care, usually those who have suffered from a stroke or a severe spinal cord injury. Physiatrists lead the rehabilitation team. Electromyography (EMG) and ot her types of nerve conduction studies are performed by these doctors.
4. Physical Therapist
Individuals suffering from musculoskeletal or neurological
problems like chronic pain, neck and back pain, injuries, degenerative disc disorders, and arthritis often consult with physical therapists. These spine specialists have undergone specific training not only in therapeutic exercise, but also in functional training. Some of the most common tasks that these specialists do include manipulating or mobilizing a joint, massaging a muscle, utilizing ultra sound, providing hot or cold
therapies, and educating patients on how they can properly take care of their back and their overall health.
5. Doctor of Chiropractic
Another type of doctor that answers your question ‘who treats spine problems?’ is a doctor of chiropractic or a chiropractor. Their patients often include those who are suffering from overuse syndromes and muscle pains. They also treat individuals who have neuromuscular (neck and back pain, carpal tunnel, and joint
pain) and non-neuromuscular symptoms (asthma, allergies,etc.). These spine specialists evaluate the patient’s spinal structure and functions. The treatments they provide often include manipulation or adjustment, massages, electrical muscle stimulation, and ultrasound therapy.
