If you’ve recently been diagnosed with back pain, you might want to ask your doctor questions like these at your next visit.
1. What is causing my back pain?
2. Can some serious conditions be causing my back pain? If so, which ones and what are their symptoms? Have they been ruled out?
3. What will worsen my back pain? What can I do to keep it from getting worse?
4. Can stress be a factor? What can I do about it?
5. What are my treatment options?
6. Are there things I can do at home or in my life to reduce my back pain?
7. If you recommend surgery, what are the risks and benefits?
8. Is medicine necessary? Are there alternative treatments?
9. If medicine is needed, how does the medicine work?
10. How long can I take medicine? What are the side effects? Is long-term use harmful?
11. How will having back pain affect me? Can other problems develop?
12. Where can I learn more about how to live with back pain?
13. What, if any, special accommodations do you recommend for school, home, or work?
14. How often do I need to come for an office visit?
15. What are the chances that my back pain will result in permanent disability?