Questions for Your Doctor: What to Ask About Back Pain

Confronting a new diagnosis can be frightening — and because research changes so often, confusing. Here are some questions you may not think to ask your doctor, along with notes on why they’re important.

Is it possible to know the cause of my back pain?

Diagnosing back pain is often impossible. The cause is never pinpointed in up to 80 percent of people with back pain. Conversely, studies show that 25 percent to 50 percent of people with herniated disks have no back discomfort at all, while degeneration of lumbar disks is found in 25 percent to 70 percent of people without symptoms of back pain.

What is the likelihood of a cure for my condition?

Many cases of back pain resolve after several weeks, but recurrences are common and low-grade discomfort may persist for years.

What kind of pain management should I be thinking about?

Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants are widely prescribed for back pain, but in controlled trials, evidence for their long-term effectiveness is not compelling, and side effects can be severe.

Are there any new developments for my condition on the horizon?

Researchers in England have pioneered a new technique using stem cells that may someday help replace damaged discs. Other teams are testing therapeutic ultrasound to ease sciatica. Experimental treatments may be available at a research center in your area.

Read the full article at nytimes.com