When you’re in pain, it’s crucial you get access to the treatment you need. However, there’s nothing simple about choosing a spine specialist. How do you search for the best spine doctors? And how do you know which specialist is right for you?
Well, to help you make the right decision for your medical needs, we suggest doing these five things when you’re choosing a spine specialist.
Arrange a Consultation
Book consultations with at least a handful of specialists. The consultation is your opportunity to meet each doctor so you can decide who you’re most comfortable with.
Your health is hugely important. If a back specialist won’t let you meet them before making a decision, they might not be the right surgeon for you.
Ask Questions
The best spine doctors give you the information you need to make an informed decision. They educate you and ensure you understand what options are available.
Questions you might ask include:
- Can you explain what’s causing my pain?
- Are there any non-surgical treatments available for my condition?
- If I need surgery, how is it performed?
An orthopedic spine specialist should answer your questions––if they don’t, it might be best to move on.
Review Their Practice
Not every spine specialist actually specializes in the type of procedure you need.
For example, say you need surgery. You might be best choosing an orthopedic spine specialist for certain mechanical deformities, whereas a neurosurgeon might be the best choice for some nervous system disorders.
You should also check how often the doctor performs surgery, if that’s what you need. If they only perform surgery occasionally, then they might not be as experienced in the newest surgical techniques as a doctor who performs surgery frequently.
Always carefully review a specialist’s day-to-day practice before scheduling a procedure with them.
Check Their Expertise
Spine surgery is highly complex. Your neck and spine specialist should be suitably qualified to perform the procedure you require.
- The most experienced surgeons have fellowship training, so look for this.
- Ensure the specialist has experience treating your condition.
You can normally find these details on the specialist’s website.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Reviews from past patients can help when you’re choosing a spine specialist. You might find it helpful to ask reliable sources for advice, too, such as your own family doctor.
Don’t read reviews in isolation, though. Always meet with the specialist and ask questions to form your own opinion.
Contact Our Spine Specialists
Before undergoing any kind of treatment for back or neck pain, you should be comfortable with your spine specialist. If you’re considering treatment for spine issues, our team is happy to help. We can answer any questions you might have, and we’ll ensure you understand all treatment options available for your condition.
Call our team today to discuss your back or neck pain.