Whether you have chronic back pain and aren’t sure of the source, or you have been treated before for conditions like degenerative discs and spinal stenosis with no luck, you may be on the hunt for a back specialist you can trust. Choosing the right specialist isn’t like choosing a painter or an electrician. It takes a lot of research and vetting before you can be confident that the professional you’re selecting can be trusted with your body’s main foundational support: your back. Here are some tips to find the ideal back specialist for you.
Ask About Credentials
The physician or specialist you ultimately choose should be a member of, or accredited by, a major association such as the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians, the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and the International Spine Interventional Society. This shows that the specialists treating you are dedicated to your long-term spine health and quality of life.
They often participate in continuing education programs to keep abreast of the latest spine technology, procedures and materials to improve technical skills and clinical knowledge. Take a moment to browse our care team to see each of our specialists’ unique qualifications.
Find Out About Training
The back specialist you choose should have completed two to three levels of post-graduate training, from medical school to residency to fellowship (this is where they gain their specialized training in the subspecialty of spine surgery, pain management, etc.)
It’s important to note that the majority of advanced spinal procedures are not generally taught in general residency programs, which means in order to become a spine specialist, they must have learned their procedures within post-graduate programs on live patients.
Investigate Experience
In addition to doing biographical research on each back specialist you consider, dig deeper to examine their treatment results on patients to ensure their expertise fits with your precise needs. Ask for references of patients with the same problem and treatment as you, and follow up with them. Ask about their experience with the specialist and what results they had.
Book a Consultation
Face to face time is an essential part of the vetting process. That’s because communication is the key to any and all successful restorative treatments by a qualified spine specialist. In-person consultations will give you a chance to ask questions, discuss your needs, review the procedures and expectations, and learn about cost. It will also give you a chance to assess their demeanor and whether you feel comfortable with them or not. Don’t underestimate this “gut check” when choosing a back specialist. It’s critical that you fully trust the specialist you choose with such a delicate part of your body.
A consultation will also give your specialist a chance to go over your treatment options and advise you on the best ones. This is a good time to ask about the technology they use in the treatment of spine problems.
Contact Summit Spine and Joint Centers
In the end, you have to feel a sense of connection and trust with your chosen back specialist. Here at Summit Spine and Joint Centers, we pride ourselves on our experience, expertise, bedside manner and expertise in Interventional Pain Management. Book your consultation today at 770-962-3642.