Are you concerned about back health or back pain? Here are a few questions to ask your doctor:
Back health and preventing injuries
- Am I at risk of back problems? (Your doctor will ask about your work environment, leisure activities, and general health to answer this question.)
- How can I improve my posture while sitting and standing?
- Are there any exercises or stretches that I should do to keep my back in shape?
- How can I reduce my risk of back injuries at work?
- Are there any "back health" products such as lumbar supports, special chairs, and mattresses that I should consider using?
Back pain
- What may be causing my back pain?
- Are there any medications that I can take to relieve the pain? Will these be safe to take with my other medications?
- Are there any non-drug measures I could take to relieve the pain, such as ice, massage, support braces, or exercises?
- Should I consider chiropractic treatment or surgery?
Back surgery
- Would back surgery be a reasonable option for my back problem?
- What are the possible risks and complications of surgery?
- How long will it take to schedule the surgery?
- What do I need to do in preparation for the surgery (e.g., lab tests, stopping medications)
- How much is the surgery likely to improve my back pain?
- When would I be able to go back to my regular activities?
- What are my options for controlling pain and nausea after surgery?
