Lower back pain and sciatica can disrupt your daily life, making it difficult to sit, stand, or even sleep. If you’re struggling with sciatic nerve pain, finding the right doctor is the first step toward lasting relief. But with so many specialists available, how do you know who to see? Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right doctor for lower back pain and sciatica.
When to See a Doctor for Sciatica & Back Pain
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to seek medical help:
- Persistent lower back pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Shooting pain that radiates from your lower back down your leg
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs or feet
- Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting
- Difficulty walking, standing, or maintaining balance
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (seek emergency care immediately)
Which Doctor Should You See for Sciatica?
There are different specialists who can diagnose and treat lower back pain and sciatica. The right one depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your pain.
1. Pain Management Specialist
A pain management specialist focuses on diagnosing and treating chronic pain conditions. They offer both non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to relieve sciatic nerve pain.
Dr. Ghalambor, a fellowship-trained pain management specialist, explains: “Sciatica pain can be managed effectively with a personalized treatment plan that may include injections, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Our goal is to help patients regain mobility without unnecessary surgery.”
2. Spine Specialist (Orthopedic or Neurosurgeon)
If your sciatica is caused by a structural issue, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, a spine specialist can evaluate your condition and determine if surgery is needed.
3. Physical Therapist
A physical therapist can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce sciatic nerve irritation. Many patients find long-term relief through guided exercises and posture correction.
4. Chiropractor
Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can be a great option for mild to moderate sciatica but should be approached cautiously for more severe cases.
5. Primary Care Physician
Your primary care doctor can assess your symptoms and refer you to the right specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
Non-Surgical Sciatica Treatment Options
Many people find relief from sciatica without surgery. Some of the best non-surgical treatments include:
- Physical Therapy – Strengthening and stretching exercises reduce nerve compression
- Epidural Steroid Injections – Reduce inflammation and provide long-lasting pain relief
- Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants can help manage pain
- Chiropractic Adjustments – Can provide relief by realigning the spine
- Lifestyle Modifications – Maintaining a healthy weight, improving posture, and avoiding prolonged sitting
When is Surgery Necessary?
Surgery is usually the last resort if conservative treatments fail. It may be recommended if:
- Pain persists for several months despite treatment
- Severe nerve compression is causing muscle weakness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control occurs
Find the Best Sciatica Specialist Near You
If you’re looking for expert sciatica treatment in Fort Worth, Allen, Coppell, or Garland, TX, schedule an appointment with a pain management specialist today. Dr. Ghalambor and his team offer advanced, non-surgical treatment options to help you find relief and get back to living pain-free. Don’t wait—book your consultation now!
