Which dr would you see?

PrincessPeach05 · March 2012

I have been having lower back pain for awhile (I am too ashamed to admit how long-I am one of those "it will get better on its own" types.) I have scoliosis bad enough that I wore a back brace for two years when I was younger (I was THE coolest kid in school-you know it!) Anyway, the pain isn't brought on by running or working out (thank goodness I would be a hot mess if it was) because it happens even if I take two days off in a row, or more. It is in a specific spot in the lower right side, like straight back from the front of my hip bone. My insurance is awesome because I don't need referrals to see a specialist, but sucks because our copay is high-ish, and doesn't cover very many tests. It is fine for most of the day, but by the end of day (like right around making dinner time) I am in agony! I used to take ibuprofen but now that doesn't make a dent in it. I have been trying to figure out who to see. Sports medicine dr? Ortho? Family practice dr? Chiropractor? Any ideas? Thanks!

Paradox09 · March 2012

I would start with your PMD go from there. I would imagine that they will refer you to either an Ortho or a Physical Therapist.

will'sbeachprincess · March 2012

Since you don't have to see a primary care doc to get a referral and can go straight to a specialist, I would do one or both of these things:

1. Call your insurance company's on call nurse (some have them, some don't) and ask what you should do.

2. Call your primary doc's office and talk with a nurse in that office about what you should do.

If neither of those work, it's always safe to see a primary doc and go from there so you don't waste time and money with the wrong specialist. I hope you get some relief soon-back pain is the worst!

Sadlebred · March 2012

If you can get a recommendation for a good local orthopedist, I'd start there. Your PCP (family doctor) can probably recommend one. I'd say that physical therapy is in your future. I've been in PT for 6 months b/c of my bad back, and it's making a difference.

PrincessPeach05 · March 2012

Sadlebred:
If you can get a recommendation for a good local orthopedist, I'd start there. Your PCP (family doctor) can probably recommend one. I'd say that physical therapy is in your future. I've been in PT for 6 months b/c of my bad back, and it's making a difference.

Thanks for the input! I have an appointment Thursday with my PCP.

lexus192 · March 2012

I would start with my PCP. And, that's exactly what I did when faced with a back issue a few years ago. PCP was my initial appointment and ended up ordering an MRI...MRI concluded that I needed further medical treatment and PCP then suggested I see a specific neurosurgeon. That said, I'd start with your PCP and see what he/she suggests! Good luck!

Which dr would you see?

Re: Which dr would you see?

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