Most back pain sufferers' conversations with their doctors and other medical professionals is often one way affair. Whatever is said is listened and adhered to. In my experience most patients are 'afraid' of asking questions because they do not want to 'make a fool of themselves'.

But there is no reason of making fool of any one. If you are suffereing, it is best to clarify what you can, or can not do.

I have compiled following questions (and explaination of why) that every back pain sufferer should ask next time they approach their doctor.

Q: What's causing my pain and why can't I have any further treatment?

Because chronic long term pain isn't normal there is nearly always a reason for it. Until the reason is clearly identified, how can anyone say no further treatment is available? (Don't be fobbed off),

Q: How long shall I give the current treatment to work?

Some treatments may take days or weeks to obtain the full effect. Make sure before you leave the surgery you have established how long it will be before you can reasonably expect to obtain results.

Q: What other tests and investigations are available?

You don't want to endure unnecessary tests, but ensure you have had all the investigations etc that will benefit you.

Q: What other forms of treatment can I try...

Many people are kept on the same treatment for years even though it's obviously not working, or their drug therapy may be hopelessly wrong.

New ways of managing back pain are constantly being developed. Can you be on trial of new treatments? They are often advertised or mentioned in literature (leaflets, books etc) available at surgeries or medical journals. Your doctor may know of if any is available for you. Not all treatments will be right for you but asking a question never hurts.

Q: I'm in so much pain, why aren't you doing more for me?

Even though the doctor knows you're in pain, he just might not have the right treatment available to offer you. You may have to accept this, (But look at alternative forms of treatment as well).

Q: What about any new developments, there must be something to help me?

Ask to be kept informed, and tell your doctor you wish to be considered for treatment as soon as it becomes available.

Q: Can you refer me to anyone else?

Many people with chronic pain gain comfort from other therapies such as physiotherapy, psychologists,
counsellors and specialist pain clinics. Ask your doctor to refer you to one of these, (It may help).

One last thing, don't ever assume it's not worth going back to your doctors because you have had your pain for ages, (especially if you never had a proper diagnosis), because it's never to late to get one...

Just think, a more careful investigation of your symptoms may lead to a more effective treatment.

Don't give up until you have exhausted every avenue... even then, do not give up.

Hope this helps you for when you next visit your doctor...