Questions to ask before seeing a back or neck practitioner

Whether you see your regular doctor, a physical therapist, an osteopathic physician, a chiropractor or a specialist about your back or neck, a little preparation makes the visit more useful. This page suggests what to bring, what to ask and what to expect, whatever the practitioner's profession.

Before you go: gather your story

Practitioners of every kind start by asking about your history. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, in its fact sheet Chiropractic: In Depth, describes a process that will be familiar from any clinic: interviewing the patient, taking a detailed health history, examining them, doing tests, developing a working diagnosis and a management plan, and monitoring progress. You can make the first part of that easier by jotting down a few notes beforehand:

• when the pain started, and what you were doing at the time;
• exactly where it hurts, and whether it spreads into a buttock, leg, shoulder or arm;
• what it feels like: aching, sharp, burning, tingling, numb or weak;
• what makes it better or worse, such as sitting, standing, walking, bending or lying down;
• how it affects sleep, work and everyday tasks;
• anything you have already tried, and what happened;
• any previous back or neck problems, injuries, operations or scans;
• your other health conditions and every medicine you take.

Mention any of the warning signs on the When to see a doctor page straight away, even if you are not asked.

Questions to ask at the first visit

A good practitioner will welcome questions. Some that people find useful:

• “What do you think is causing my pain, and how sure are you?”
• “Is there anything in my symptoms that needs further tests or a doctor's opinion?”
• “What are the options for care, including doing nothing special for now?”
• “What does each option involve, and what are the possible side effects or risks?”
• “What can I do myself in the meantime, and what should I avoid?”
• “How will we know whether things are changing, and when will we review the plan?”
• “What should make me come back sooner, or seek urgent help?”

If the practitioner uses a term you do not understand, it is reasonable to ask what it means. The glossary explains many of the words that come up.

Questions about hands-on treatment

If a practitioner suggests manipulation, mobilization or other hands-on techniques, NCCIH's fact sheet on spinal manipulation emphasises that practitioners should assess patients thoroughly and that patients should share information about their health conditions and medications. It is worth asking what technique is planned, what it will feel like, what side effects are common, and whether there are gentler alternatives. The spinal manipulation page explains the terms and the safety picture.

Questions about the plan and the cost

Plans for back and neck care vary widely, from a single visit with advice to a series of sessions over time. Before agreeing to anything, it is reasonable to understand:

• how many visits are proposed, over what period, and why;
• what each visit will cost, and whether any of it is covered by your insurance;
• whether you will be asked to pay in advance or sign up for a package, and what happens if you stop early;
• whether any products or devices are being recommended, and whether they are optional;
• how the plan will be reviewed, and what happens if there is little change.

A plan that is clear, reviewed regularly and flexible is easier to judge than one that is fixed in advance. You are always free to take time to think, to ask for the plan in writing, or to seek a second opinion.

Checking credentials

Most health professions are licensed, and licensing boards in each state or country can confirm whether a practitioner holds a current license. NCCIH notes, for example, that chiropractors in the United States must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, pass a national board exam and hold a state license. Physical therapists, physicians and other licensed professionals have their own requirements.

Keeping your regular doctor informed

If you see someone other than your regular health care provider, it helps to let your regular provider know, and to tell each practitioner about the others. That way, anyone looking after you has the full picture, including medicines, other conditions and any change in symptoms.

Your rights as a patient

You can ask questions at any point, decline any test or technique, ask for a chaperone, and stop a course of care. You can also ask for a referral or second opinion if you are unsure. Being an active, informed participant is part of good care, not an obstacle to it.