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What to Look for in Your Spine Doctor
June 17, 2021
Lower back pain affects almost everyone at some point. In fact, lower back pain is the number one cause of disability in the world.
While some back pain is manageable with home treatment, more serious cases will require a spine doctor. But, how do you find the right spine doctor for you?
It’s important to receive quality medical care. That’s why you should know how to spot a quality spine doctor. This checklist will walk you through how to find the perfect doctor.
Why You Need a Quality Spine Doctor
Your health is key. That’s why the importance of choosing a good doctor can’t be understated. You want a doctor that you’ll be certain can provide the proper care for your condition.
Choosing a quality spine doctor is important to ensure your health, safety, and comfort in the years to come. A good doctor will also keep you safe from scams that could end up costing you tons of money.
The Spine Doctor Checklist
There are a few things you should be on the lookout for when choosing your doctor. Focusing on key areas and asking the right questions will ensure you receive the correct treatments. Things to ask include:
What Are Their Experiences?
You want to find a doctor that devotes at least 50% of their practice to spinal specialties. These doctors will be more familiar with the most up-to-date treatments and technologies available.
Try to find a doctor who has plenty of experience in whatever treatment you’re seeking. This will ensure that they’ve perfected their practice.
Are They Board Certified?
If you speak to a doctor who doesn’t have their board certification, look elsewhere. Doctors who are board eligible can also be helpful resources, though certified is always best.
You should also look for doctors who have been trained specifically in the spine. Doctors with past fellowships in spinal medicine are assured to have the proper training for whatever treatments you need.
Do You Feel Comfortable With Them?
Perhaps one of the most important factors in choosing a doctor is how comfortable you feel with them. Good communication is essential for ensuring proper treatment and nurturing a good doctor/patient relationship.
Look for a doctor who answers all your questions, provides thorough information on your condition, has a good bedside manner, and spends a quality amount of time with you. Your doctor should also be open to you seeking out a second opinion.
Signs of a Bad Spine Doctor
In general, you should AVOID doctors who do the following actions:
- Discourage a second opinion
- Discourages your questions
- Influences your decision on surgery
- Discourages conservative treatment
- Does not provide adequate information about expectations
Quality Spine Doctors Provide Quality Care
Now that you know a few basic things to look out for when choosing a spine doctor, you’re ready to receive the best possible care. Your relationship with your doctor is designed to make you feel better, not worse!
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our quality spine specialists. We can answer any questions you may have and make sure you receive the best possible care.