A pain in the neck may not only be uncomfortable, but it can also be indicative of a serious injury. Choosing the right neck specialist will usually depend on the cause of your neck problem. You can often get referrals or recommendations from your regular physician, or our friends and family. You should also choose a neck specialist that you feel comfortable with, and that you can afford.
Your regular doctor may be the only doctor that you need for your neck problems. This will, of course, depend on the severity of the problem. If it is something simple, like a neck strain, he will usually be able to advise you on what to do. He may also run diagnostic tests to determine a problem. If your neck problem is beyond his expertise, he will then most likely refer you to the proper neck specialist.
Cervical spondylosis is a type of arthritis that primarily afflicts the neck. It is also sometimes referred to as arthritis of the neck. A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in treating arthritis patients. If your neck pain is caused by arthritis, this type of doctor will most likely be able to help.
A slipped disc in the neck is another common neck problem that can cause pain. This occurs when the soft disc between two vertebrae begins to bulge through the connective tissue holding it in place. An orthopedist will usually be able to treat patients with this type of medical condition.
Chiropractic specialists may also be able to help you to alleviate back and neck pain from less serious medical problems. This type of neck specialist will use non-invasive treatments to help correct problems in the spine. He may realign the spine, for instance, or he may recommend neck exercises that can help restore normal mobility.
When trying to choose the best neck specialist, you may also want to ask for recommendations from a family member or friend who has had a similar problem. They will usually be more than willing to share information, both good and bad, about some of the specialists that they have. You can also ask your doctor for a list of good neck specialists in your area.
Before you begin a treatment program with a new neck specialist, you must first be sure that you feel comfortable with him. He should listen to you and answer any questions that you might have. The lines of communication must be completely open between the two of you, as this is an essential part of your treatment.
Cost is another factor that you should consider when trying to choose a neck specialist. If you have medical insurance, you should make sure that he accepts it. In the event that you do not have medical insurance, ask about his rates. Some doctors will be willing to work with you to cover the cost of the fees.
