Seeking Guidance on Back Pain Treatment in Chicago
At 19, back pain led me to consult a chiropractor in 2018, which was my only option since my mother controlled my health insurance decisions. The chiropractor conducted x-rays and informed me that I required comprehensive treatment. He diagnosed me with bone spurs along my spine and indicated signs of "bone degeneration" typical in individuals over fifty. Additionally, he noted that my neck was misaligned, likely due to my posture placing undue stress on it, although my recollection of the specifics is fading. Since that initial visit, I haven't pursued any further treatment over the past six years. While I cannot claim my discomfort has intensified, it certainly remains present. My hesitance to return stems largely from my mother's severe anxiety about the healthcare system; she believed the chiropractor was merely profiting from unnecessary treatments. Consequently, I have distanced myself from chiropractic care, as I feel they lack the necessary medical expertise for my liking. With my mother no longer involved in my healthcare decisions, I'm now ready to seek proper medical attention. I need guidance on how to start this process effectively. Browsing Zocdoc reveals a vast array of options, from spinal and orthopedic surgeons to numerous physical therapists. I’m eager to obtain updated x-rays (I'm in the process of requesting previous x-ray records from the chiropractor) and want a professional who can help me uncover the underlying issues and propose appropriate treatments. Here are a few specific questions I hope to get answered: 1. Which type of medical professionals should I consult first for an accurate diagnosis? 2. Is physical therapy typically recommended for addressing back pain and posture-related issues? If I locate a PT clinic that can perform x-rays, could that eliminate the need for an additional doctor's visit for diagnosis? 3. Without seeking medical advice, does anyone have knowledge about bone spurs in the spine of a 19-year-old? Do they always imply the presence of arthritis? 4. Are there any recommendations for spine or bone specialists in Chicago? I appreciate any advice or insights you can share! 🩷
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 4:10:55 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience and concerns regarding your back pain. It's understandable to feel uncertain about the next steps, especially after a long gap in treatment. Your goal seems to be to identify the underlying issues of your back pain and find appropriate treatment. Here’s a structured approach to help you navigate this process effectively.
Main Points:
- Start by consulting an appropriate medical professional to get an updated diagnosis.
- Physical therapy is often beneficial for back pain and posture correction.
- Bone spurs in young individuals can occur, but do not automatically indicate arthritis.
Explanation:
Given your history of back pain and the diagnosis of bone spurs, it's essential to seek an updated evaluation. While your past chiropractic visit provided some insights, a medical professional, such as a primary care doctor or an orthopedic specialist, can offer a more comprehensive assessment and recommend further tests, if needed. This is crucial, as the body can change significantly over six years.
1. Which type of medical professionals should I consult first?
- Primary Care Physician (PCP): They can evaluate your symptoms, order updated imaging like x-rays, and refer you to specialists if necessary.
- Orthopedic Specialist: Focuses on musculoskeletal issues and can provide a more specialized evaluation concerning your spine and back pain.
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Specialist: These experts can often suggest nonsurgical treatments and physical therapy options.
2. Is physical therapy recommended?
- Yes, Physical Therapy (PT): It is often prescribed for back pain and can help with posture correction, strengthening core muscles, and enhancing mobility. Some PT clinics can perform advanced imaging, but seeing a doctor first is typically recommended to ensure that the right tests are done.
3. Regarding bone spurs:
- Bone spurs can occur from various factors such as genetics, posture, or repetitive stress. At your young age, they may not be related to arthritis. It’s best to discuss these findings with a healthcare professional who can determine what this means for your specific situation.
4. Recommendations for specialists in Chicago:
- While I cannot directly provide names, look for orthopedic clinics or physical medicine & rehabilitation facilities in your area with good patient reviews. Websites like Zocdoc are useful for checking patient ratings. Look for professionals specializing in spinal conditions to ensure you're getting focused care.
Next Steps:
-
Book an Appointment: Start with a primary care physician or an orthopedic specialist to discuss your ongoing back pain and get referrals to sports medicine or physical therapy if needed.
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Request Updated Imaging: When visiting your chosen medical professional, make sure to discuss the importance of updated x-rays or imaging to get a clear understanding of your spine's current state.
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Explore Physical Therapy Options: If advised, look for a reputable physical therapy clinic that specializes in back issues.
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Stay Informed: Keep researching and educating yourself about your condition, and don’t hesitate to ask questions during your appointments.
Your proactive approach to managing your health is commendable, and seeking help from the right professionals will be the next important step. Please feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need support along the way! 🩷
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