Choosing the Right Doctor: What Doctor to See for Back Nerve Pain

If you’re experiencing back nerve pain, it can be difficult to know which doctor to consult. At New Jersey Back Center, we understand the frustration that comes with seeking a solution for back pain. That’s why we want to help guide you through the process of finding the right doctor for your specific needs.

What is Back Nerve Pain?

Back nerve pain, also referred to as sciatica pain, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down to the feet. When this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including sharp or shooting pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

The most common causes of back nerve pain include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. In some cases, back nerve pain can be caused by a traumatic injury or a tumor pressing on the nerve. Regardless of the cause, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for effectively managing back nerve pain and preventing further complications.

Who Should You Consult for Back Pain?

When it comes to back nerve pain, it’s important to consult with a doctor who specializes in treating this type of condition. Here are some healthcare professionals you may consider consulting for back nerve pain:

1. Primary Care Physician: Your primary care physician can be a good starting point for managing back nerve pain. They can perform a physical exam and recommend treatments such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or physical therapy. If your condition requires more specialized care, your primary care physician can refer you to a specialist.
2. Physical Therapist: A physical therapist can help you alleviate back pain through exercises, stretches, and other non-invasive techniques. They can also provide guidance on how to improve your posture and body mechanics to prevent future back problems.
3. Pain and Spine Doctor: A pain and spine doctor specializes in treating back pain and can offer a range of treatments, including nerve blocks, epidural injections, and other minimally invasive procedures. They have specialized training in managing chronic pain and can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
4. Orthopedic Surgeon: An orthopedic surgeon may be recommended for more serious cases of back pain, such as those caused by degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. They can perform surgical procedures to relieve pressure on the nerves in the spine.
5. Interventional Pain Specialist: An interventional pain specialist is the most appropriate doctor to consult for back nerve pain because they diagnose the root cause and offer minimally invasive treatments. They have specialized training in interventional pain management and can provide nerve blocks, epidural injections, and other procedures that target the source of your pain.

It’s important to note that every case of back nerve pain is unique, and the appropriate doctor to consult depends on your specific symptoms and medical history. At New Jersey Back Center, our board-certified interventional pain specialists can diagnose and treat back nerve pain using minimally invasive techniques, without relying on opioids or surgery.

Diagnosing Back Nerve Pain

Before seeking treatment for back nerve pain, it’s crucial to obtain a proper diagnosis. A diagnosis can help determine the underlying cause of your pain, which can guide your doctor in developing a personalized treatment plan that targets the root of the problem.

Your primary care physician can perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to diagnose the cause of your back nerve pain. These tests can help identify issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other conditions that may be compressing or irritating the sciatic nerve.

At New Jersey Back Center, we always diagnose the root cause of the problem before recommending a treatment plan. We understand the importance of a proper diagnosis in effectively treating back nerve pain. Our board-certified interventional pain specialists have advanced training and expertise in diagnosing and treating back nerve pain.

Treating Back Nerve Pain

At New Jersey Back Center, we specialize in minimally invasive pain treatments, which focus on treating the underlying cause of back nerve pain, rather than just masking the symptoms with opioids. Our board-certified interventional pain specialists offer a range of treatments to alleviate back nerve pain, including nerve blocks, epidural injections, and radiofrequency ablation.

Nerve blocks involve injecting a local anesthetic or steroid directly into the affected nerve to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Epidural injections, on the other hand, are injected into the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots. This helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the affected area. Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using heat to destroy the nerve fibers that are causing pain. This can provide long-lasting relief for patients with chronic back nerve pain.

Physical therapy is also an important component of back pain treatment. We work closely with physical therapists to provide comprehensive care for our patients. Physical therapy can help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion, which can reduce the risk of future back injuries. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate back nerve pain. If this is the case, we will refer you to an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spinal surgery. Our team will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you receive the best possible care.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re experiencing back nerve pain, it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified medical professional. At New Jersey Back Center, we offer free insurance verification before your first appointment and specialize in minimally invasive pain treatments. Whether you need physical therapy, interventional pain treatments, or surgery, we can help you find the right solution for your needs. Don’t wait to call us and make an appointment with one of our board-certified interventional pain specialists.