Orthopedists. An orthopedic doctor is a board-certified surgeon who specializes in problems—from head to toe—of the musculoskeletal system. This includes, of course, the spine. An orthopedist might address conditions such as ruptured discs, scoliosis or other types of neck or low back pain..
Also asked, can an orthopedic doctor help with back pain?
Every patient should visit their primary care physician before seeing an orthopedic spine surgeon. Your family doctor will perform a medical exam to identify the cause of your condition. He or she can prescribe medicines for non-chronic lower back pain (12 weeks and less).
Secondly, what do orthopedic doctors treat? Orthopaedic surgeons are devoted to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Some orthopaedists are generalists, while others specialize in certain areas of the body, such as: Hip and knee. Foot and ankle.
Accordingly, what does a neurologist do for back pain?
Every back pain and neck pain patient is unique, with different degrees of problems associated with a bone or disc abnormality. A neurologist is trained to discover the causes of symptoms, as well as using EMG testing to assess the injury to nerves and whether it is reversible in the short and long term.
What doctor treats muscle pain?
Orthopedists treat issues affecting the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which makes them a smart choice if you have an ongoing pain that acts up during or after a run. See an orthopedist with a sports-medicine specialization who works with athletes to prevent and manage injury.
Related Question Answers
What kind of doctor fixes back problems?
Spine specialists have a more specific area of expertise in certain diagnoses and/or treatments for back pain and spinal conditions, and generally include: - Surgeons.
- Physiatrists.
- Anesthesiologists.
- Neurologists.
- Rheumatologists.
What doctor specializes in back pain?
Neurologist. Neurologists are surgeons who specialize in understanding and back pain caused by the spinal cord, muscles or nervous system.How long does it take to get an orthopedic appointment?
Our comprehensive appointments typically take between 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the total visit. Please plan accordingly. Potential Wait Times – We value your time and will do everything we can to see you at your scheduled appointment time.How do I know if my back pain is serious?
Contact a doctor if your back pain: Is severe and doesn't improve with rest. Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain extends below the knee. Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs.Why would you see an orthopedic doctor?
Orthopaedic doctors work in both hospitals and specialized practices to treat infections, sports injuries, broken bones, joint problems (e.g., arthritis), congenital conditions, degenerative conditions (e.g., osteoporosis), and bone tumors. Pain in muscles, tendons, or joints that persists for more than a few days.Why should I see a physiatrist?
A physiatrist in a physician who is residency trained in physical medicine and rehabilitation. A physiatrist can diagnosis and treat sports and spine-related injuries as well as restore maximum function lost through injury, illness or disabling conditions. They can also treat pain syndromes.When should I see an orthopedic doctor?
Patients might need an orthopedic physician if they have: Joint or musculoskeletal pain that began after an injury. Gradually progressive hip or knee pain that is worse with weight bearing. Joint pain that is severe and interfering with function. Moderate or advanced arthritis of the knee or hip.What is a spine doctor called?
A spine specialist is a health professional who focuses mainly on treating spine conditions. Common specialists include chiropractors, physiatrists, physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain management physicians, anesthesiologists, and many rheumatologists and neurologists.When should you see a neurologist for back pain?
When this pain is not something your primary care physician can help you manage, you may choose to see a neurologist, especially if you have other symptoms along with the pain like weakness, numbness, or problems with bladder or bowel control.What does a neurologist diagnose?
A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles. Most of the time, a primary care doctor refers patients to a neurologist if they have symptoms that indicate a neurological condition.What can a neurologist do for a herniated disc?
Conditions a Neurosurgeon Commonly Treats Neurosurgeons also treat spinal problems such as neck pain, back pain, leg pain (including sciatica), or shoulder pain caused by disc problems (such as degenerative disc disease or herniated disc), trauma or spinal/neck arthritis.What does a neurologist do for spinal stenosis?
Washington University spinal neurosurgeons routinely treat spinal stenosis – the narrowing of the enclosed space in the spine – in both the neck (cervical stenosis) and low back (lumbar stenosis). They provide a full range of treatment options including conservative (non-surgical) measures and surgical decompression.What is the best medication for chronic back pain?
Depending on the type of back pain you have, your doctor might recommend the following: Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), might relieve acute back pain.Why would you be referred to a neurologist?
Neurologists treat conditions that affect the nervous system, which includes the brain, spine and nerves. A general practitioner (GP) might refer someone to a neurologist for diagnosis and treatment if they have symptoms such as: muscle weakness. dizziness, loss of balance or coordination problems.What will a neurosurgeon do on first visit?
During your initial visit, you will be seen by our staff, who will ask about your medical history and your symptoms. One of our physicians will then perform a focused neurological examination. After reviewing your medical history and diagnostic tests, you will be presented with a number of treatment options.Should I see a neurologist for sciatica?
A neurologist, or physician who specializes in the nervous system, is the best person to manage severe sciatica. Your primary doctor may refer you to a specialist in such cases. If you're unsure if your symptoms are related to sciatica, or if your symptoms get worse despite home therapy, consult a physician.Should I see a neurologist for a pinched nerve?
Because a pinched nerve can look like other conditions, try to be as specific as possible when describing the pain or other sensations. If your primary care doctor is unable to diagnose the pinched nerve, you may need to see a neurologist or orthopedist.What happens at an orthopedic appointment?
When you meet with an orthopaedic surgeon for the first time, it is helpful to know what to expect during the orthopedic evaluation. Your first orthopedic appointment will most likely include a comprehensive medical history evaluation, diagnostic imaging (X-rays and/or MRI), and physical tests.What can an orthopedic doctor do for arthritis?
Orthopedic surgeons are specially trained in the surgical treatment of bone and joint problems that affect movement, like arthritis. Some surgeons specialize in disease of the hip, knee, or spine while others treat disease in several joints of the body, including hands and feet. 
