Chiropractor, Orthopedist, Who Do I Need For My Back Pain?

The most commonly asked question amongst back and neck pain sufferers is chiropractor or orthopedist? Both physicians are capable of making a diagnosis. Something to take into consideration is that an orthopedist is typically trained to perform surgery and chiropractors are trained to physically manipulate the spine, thus the doctor doing the diagnosing may not be the one best suited to treat you. Finding a doctor who knows their limitations, whether it be an orthopedic surgeon or a chiropractor is imperative. Finding the best physician as well as the best type of physician for your needs is important.

Generally speaking the first step in treatment would be to fix the problem without any invasive procedure. Chiropractors manipulate the musculoskeletal structure with the belief that proper alignment will allow the body to heal without surgery. Many chiropractic offices use massage, ultrasound, heat, ice, and electrical stimulation to alleviate the patient's pain.

When suffering from acute or mild pain most orthopedic surgeons will either medicate or refer you to some sort of alternative treatment. In attempt to avoid medication and what may be an unnecessary trip to the surgeon, one might consider a chiropractor as the first step to treating their pain. Many seek chiropractic opinion because medication prescribed by orthopedist is only pain management rather than a solution. Not only that, but many of the side effects that come with pain medication and muscle relaxers can be as much of an inhibitor in your daily life as the pain itself.

Orthopedic surgeons prescribe therapy, medication, or surgery. Their practice does not require or even allow them to spend a vast amount of time with their patients. Rather than send patients on their way, chiropractors directly treat patients themselves, ensuring that they have the one on one interaction most doctors are not able to have with patients. Chiropractors are able to develop interpersonal relationships with patients, enabling them to take their lifestyle into account when treating the patient.

Chiropractors take an alternative route to healing the body rather than relying solely on surgery and medication. Aside from the health benefits of chiropractic practices these physicians are hands on and able to devote more time to each patient. This is not to say that an orthopedist is never necessary but if you aren't keen on the idea of surgery or medication and find comfort in knowing that your doctor knows you, a chiropractor may be in your best interest.