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This list of questions is a good starting point for discussion with your doctor. However, it is not a comprehensive list.
General questions about Back Pain
- What are the most common causes of back pain?
- What does the pain usually feel like?
- Are there related symptoms?
- Are certain people / body types predisposed to back problems?
- Can people who are physically fit experience back pain?
- Why do most episodes affect the lumbar, or lower, back?
- Is it true that back problems can develop for no apparent reason?
- What, if anything, can be done to avoid back pain?
- Which behaviors might increase the risk of back pain?
- What causes the occasional associated numbness or tingling in the limbs?
- What are the most common treatments for back pain?
- Should I always see a doctor when I experience back pain?
- What is "self care" and what does it entail?
Questions you might ask your doctor
- Which diagnostic techniques are most helpful in identifying the causes of back pain?
- What types of medications are most helpful?
- Do you apply ice or heat to a sore back?
- How helpful is bed rest? Traction? Cortisone shots? Acupuncture?
- Can people with back pain engage in physical activity?
- Why do doctors often prefer a combination of treatments?
- What does it mean if back pain "travels" to other areas of the body?
- When is back pain "typical" and when might it indicate a more serious problem?
- Do the underlying conditions for short-term and long-term pain differ?
- Is there an optimum position for standing? Sitting? Sleeping?
- Why does back pain clear up sometimes and linger other times?
- What is a herniated disc?
- What is sciatica?
Questions your doctor might ask you
- Is your pain on one side only or on both sides?
- What does the pain feel like? Is it dull, sharp, throbbing, burning?
- Is this the first time you have had back pain?
- If you have had back pain before, is this pain similar or different?
- Do you know the cause of previous episodes of back pain?
- When did the pain begin?
- How did the pain start – suddenly or gradually?
- What were you doing just before the pain began?
- Did you have a particular injury or accident?
- How long does each episode of back pain usually last?
- Do you feel pain anywhere other than your back, like your hip, thigh, leg or feet?
- Do you have any numbness or tingling? Any weakness or loss of function in your leg or elsewhere?
- What makes the pain worse? Lifting, twisting, standing or sitting?
- What makes you feel better?
- Are there any other symptoms present, such as weight loss, fever, a change in urination or bowel habits?
Adapted from information available on the following web sites:
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