Hi Everyone,

I have been suffering from really bad back and neck pain for months now. I've been to a chiropractor but that has not helped me.

Who should I go to that is good with this kind of thing. Who really knows about the back and neck and what causes this terrible pain. I just feel that my regular family doctor is not the right person to see.

I would greatly appreciate all your help and suggestions.

Thanks so much!

Well, I see a neurologist because my neck and lumbar pain is from nerve root and facet joint disease. It depends on what is causing the problem damaged nerves. I also have DDD cervical arthritis and cervical stenosis and lumbar stenosis and have had it for 25 yrs and it probably won't get better as surgery is not an option in my case. Orthepedic Dr is another one to consider. I was told by a chiropractor that seeing him for my neck is something he won't touch. Lumbar is another story, now I don't see him at all cuz he can't help any of it, at least he is honest, my last one really wrecked my neck and that is why I live with constant pain at the base of the neck for over 25 yrs.

Hi Nancy

Thanks for your reply.

Do you mean that your Chiro won't see you for your neck pain? And that another chiro messed up your neck years ago? I'm not quite clear on that.

I saw a chiro last year and I felt like she was taking me for a ride. She kept saying if I come for adjustments 3 times a week for 6 months it will solve my neck problems. Well, after a few months I felt like something was weird and I stopped going. I am in so much pain now. I'm not sure what is wrong - I know I had pinched nerves but she never really explained anything to me.

Do you think I should just go to a regular doctor or an orthopedic? Do you take pain medication? Does it help and what do they give you?

Hope you feel better!

Aloha Bienkie, :wave:

Welcome aboard!

In my opinion, I also think that an orthopedic surgeon would be a good starting point. They would more than likely send you for some imaging, i.e. x-rays, mri etc. to try and find the source and nature of your pain. You didn’t mention anything about pain, numbness or burning in your arms and or legs, if you do have these, then a neurologist or neuro-surgeon might be another option. Once you find the source of your pain, they can then plot a conservative course of action to address and hopefully solve your dilemma without surgical intervention. They might send you to a physical therapist and or a pain management doctor to help you deal with your pain until you can get a handle on a solution. It takes time, determination and a positive attitude to beat this, I hope you find success soon, Good Luck.

Carl

stay away from chiropractors. they feel your head and leave you in more pain than came in with. go to nuro, or ortho. doctor at hospitals are really not wise when it come to back diseases of any back related problem. go to some one specialized in back problems and to help with pain. god bless.

Welcome Bienkie!!! Everyone's already advised you as I would've, so just wanted to welcome you and to let you know that you're not alone!! Take care!

Well, I am TOTALLY shocked that you saw a Chiropractor who said he could not help you. I've never met a Chiro that didn't think he could help anyone regardless of the problem! "You have the flu? Well, come on in and we can do an adjustment for that too". GEEZ!!! I went to a Chiro about 15 yrs ago and he really helped my lower back. Then I went to one for the past 9 months, and never really felt any better. What a waste of money!!!
I agree with seeing either an Ortho or a Neuro. One of them should be able to help you. Good luck!

Thanks Michelle - so a ortho specializes in back pain/neck pain? Can he prescribe pain medicine as well?

Thank you for your help.

Neurologist or orthopedic! I hope you have gotten some help by now.

Bienke
An Orthopeadic surgeon is the best place to start. Find one that specializes in spinal disorders. Yes, they can indeed prescribe medicine, they are full fledged doctors, graduated from medical school, the whole nine yards.

If the problem is neurological, they'll be able to refer you to a neurologist, and in some cases can treat those kind of problems themselves, depending on the situation.

Good luck to you.
Julie

Oh no Funkyheadgirl - you misunderstood me. The chiropractor did not help me as far as pain goes. She did however want me to keep coming in for adjustments for the rest of my life!

It was clear to me that I was wasting my time - but off course the Chiro believed that was the answer for all my pain. Eventually I stopped going.

Oh no Funkyheadgirl - you misunderstood me. The chiropractor did not help me as far as pain goes. She did however want me to keep coming in for adjustments for the rest of my life!

It was clear to me that I was wasting my time - but off course the Chiro believed that was the answer for all my pain. Eventually I stopped going.


I thought so. Never met a Chiro who didn't think they could fix the problem in about 8 years worth of visits. Good for you that you had the sense to come here and post! Definately see the Orthopedic Doctor first, then the Neurosurgeon second if surgery is warrented. But let these real doctors find out what is worng and not some shmuck who only wants to twist your limbs around for an hour and charge you a packet of money without telling you what is causing the pain. I'm just glad the moron didn't cause more damage!

Glad to have you here on the board. We'll be here for you. :)

I had an orthopedic spine specialist do my back surgery. He was a good surgeon, but definitely lacking in the personality department. He did a discectomy L5/S1 5 years ago. Since then he's offered me a fusion. Well, being than I think his personality equates to his initials (M.F.) I have chosen pain management. When I had my surgery, there was a man about my age who chose to have a neurosurgeon do his. I believe he had a laminectomy at L4/L5. I don't believe his outcome was any better or worse than mine. Just make sure they say they are Spine Specialists. (especially if you're in need of surgery) There are also Physiatrists who specialize in backs.
Good luck~Barbara

Do you think Physical Therapy helps for back and neck pain? I have been going for 2 weeks but so far I don't see an improvement.

Thank you for all your advice!

Hi Everyone,

I have been suffering from really bad back and neck pain for months now. I've been to a chiropractor but that has not helped me.

Who should I go to that is good with this kind of thing. Who really knows about the back and neck and what causes this terrible pain. I just feel that my regular family doctor is not the right person to see.

I would greatly appreciate all your help and suggestions.

Thanks so much!

I would start with a reputable Osteopath. They are an MD that has more natural beliefs. Ours specilizes in backs only. He can do manipulations and insurance pays for it. He is highly educated in the spine.

They might refer you to an MRI, PT, X-Rays, anti-inflammtory meds, muscle relaxers, and light weight pain piils, but their main focus is manipulations.

If they find that you have a structural problem, through the use of an MRI or X-ray, they will refer you on to either a pain management doctor or an ortho. If the ortho finds that nerves are involved, and they are a reputable and honest doctor, they will refer you to an Neurologist for an EMG. If surgery is indicated, and that should be your LAST choice, then a Neurologist is the way to go.

All of this takes awhile. I read that about 80% of the population will experience back pain in their life time. Exhaust all avenues before surgery or even thinking about surgery. There are a lot of unscrupulous doctors out there right now who are trying to make their malpractice insurance premiums who are pushing surgery. Once you have surgery, there is no going back.

So, you are your best doctor.