The constant agony of chronic back pain can make even the simplest daily tasks feel like a mountain to climb. For those who suffer from it, finding relief is a top priority in their lives.
If you want to stop back pain from preventing you from doing the things you love, this post will provide helpful information about how to find back pain relief near you.
The Basics of Back Pain
Chronic back pain is a serious health condition that affects millions of people in the United States. Clinically speaking, pain is considered chronic if it lasts for 12 weeks or more after the initial injury or cause of the pain.
The root causes of chronic back pain vary widely but are commonly due to conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or herniated discs, amongst others. In some cases, it might also be triggered by non-spinal sources like kidney stones or infections.
Chronic back pain can significantly diminish your quality of life. It can limit your mobility, affect your mood and sleep, and hinder your ability to work or perform everyday tasks. If not treated properly, the condition could lead to other health complications such as depression, obesity, or cardiovascular disease.
How to Find Back Pain Relief Near You
Finding a specialist who can provide effective treatment for your chronic back pain is critical. Here are some ways to find back pain relief near you:
Research Online
The fact that you’re reading this post implies you’ve already begun your search for help. As you explore your options, look up local “pain management clinics” or pain specialists in your area. Many hospitals and healthcare providers have websites with information about their services and specialists, so be sure to investigate their options, as well.
Ask Your Primary Care Physician
Your regular doctor can give you recommendations based on their professional network and knowledge about your specific health situation. While you definitely want to involve your primary care physician in your overall back pain care, they may not be equipped to identify the true source of your pain and can refer you to a specialist.
Online Directories
Online directories can help you find and compare specialists in your area. Health apps may also have features to find and book appointments with specialists.
Specialized Clinics
Look for local clinics or practitioners that specialize in chronic pain management. While clinics can vary widely in their approach and treatments, they are often more experienced in dealing specifically with chronic back pain.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Back Pain Specialist
Once you have a short list of potential specialists, consider the following factors to help you decide which one(s) to visit:
Location
One of the most important considerations for choosing a care provider for your back pain is their proximity to your home. This is especially true for residents of rural communities, where specialized care may not be as readily available. The last thing any back pain sufferer wants is sitting in a car for hours on the way to and from their appointment.
Wait Times
How long should you have to wait for an appointment? Many clinics, especially those in larger cities, often have waiting periods of weeks or months — which is not ideal for anyone experiencing chronic pain.
Credentials
Make sure the specialist is board-certified and has demonstrated experience treating chronic back pain.
Reviews
Check online reviews from other patients. Testimonials can give you insights into the specialist’s bedside manner and effectiveness.
Approach to Pain Management
Consider the specialist’s approach to diagnosing and treating pain. Some may take a holistic or alternative approach while others focus more on traditional treatments.
Comfort Level
It’s important that you feel comfortable with the specialist, as trust and open communication are key to successful treatment. If something doesn’t feel right to you or doesn’t give you confidence, seek another option.
Different Methods of Back Pain Treatment
There are many different methods for treating back pain, and what works best can vary from person to person. Some of the most common treatments include:
Medication
These could include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription drugs, or even injections.
Physical Therapy
Regular exercise and physical therapy can strengthen your back muscles and improve your posture, which can help alleviate the pain.
Alternative Care
Some people find relief from treatments like hot needling, massage, or chiropractic care.
Minimally Invasive Treatments
A growing trend in chronic pain management is the use of minimally invasive treatments such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablations, and trigger point injections.
Surgery
Surgery is typically a last resort when other treatments have not been effective, or when the condition is severe.
Find Back Pain Relief With HPM
At HPM, we understand the struggle of living with chronic back pain. That’s why our team of certified medical specialists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating back pain as effectively as possible.
We operate pain management clinics in rural locations across the U.S., making it easier for small-town patients to find help closer to home. Our specialists are highly trained and offer personalized treatment plans that treat the true source of your pain.
Don’t let chronic back pain control your life any longer. Contact HPM today to find a location near you.
