Chronic back and neck pain can be debilitating. A recent study by the National Institute of Health Statistics indicated that low back pain was the most common type of pain experienced by Americans (27%), followed by severe headache or migraine pain (15%), neck pain (15%) and facial ache or pain (4%). For many, the thought of living a life free of pain no longer exists. They either believe their pain can't be fixed or they are afraid of surgery so they allow the pain to continue untreated. What many people don't realize is that there is a non-surgical solution to chronic neck and back pain.
When you first seek care for your back or neck pain, the first doctor you will see is usually your primary physician. Your doctor may then tell you that you require care from a spine surgeon. While you may be limited to spine surgeons within your managed care network, there are some things to look for when you are in the process of choosing the best one to manage your condition.
