When to Consider Consulting an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

If you’re living with unrelenting back pain, Dr. Craig Callewart of Dallas, Rockwall, and Forney, TX, is an orthopedic spine surgeon dedicated to bringing you relief.

4 Signs It’s Time to See an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon 

 When back pain and other related symptoms present in your life, you likely wonder what path to take. Is rest enough? Should you see a doctor? What type of doctor should you see? Below, Dr. Callewart of Dallas, Rockwall, and Forney, TX, shares a few signs that let you know it’s time to visit an orthopedic spine surgeon. 

1. Pain and Other Symptoms Are Unbearable

 Issues in the spine can create many symptoms, including but not limited to: 

• Frequent back pain, sometimes in conjunction with night sweats, weight loss, fever, and chills
• Pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs 
• Trouble with bowel function or bladder control 
• Difficulty or inability to move your arms or legs 

 It’s always a good idea to seek help for back pain or pain, tingling, and numbness in the extremities. However, it’s especially important when these symptoms won’t let up – even with the use of medication.

2. Conservative Methods Aren’t Producing the Desired Results

 Often, back pain can be addressed through conservative approaches, such as physical therapy, lifestyle changes, ergonomics, therapeutic massage, weight loss, and proper nutrition. However, if you’ve tried such methods to no avail, it’s time to speak to a spine surgeon.

3. Symptoms Are Impairing Your Quality of Life

 Spinal issues can make everything difficult because the spine is so tied up in every move you make. It can interfere with your sleep, work, hobbies, and time with family. It can keep you in bed, which can be problematic as being sedentary often makes pain worse. If your symptoms are making a negative impact on your quality of life, it’s time to seek help.

4. Your Condition Is Progressive or Impacts the Spine’s Stability 

 In some cases, spinal issues can become worse and have a severe impact on your health. For example, fractures and osteoporosis can make the spine unstable, which can lead to falls. And conditions like scoliosis and spinal stenosis worsen over time. It’s important to work with a spine surgeon to monitor the condition and employ proper treatment and procedure early. 

Don’t take chances with your spinal health. Call (214) 271-4585 to schedule an appointment with orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Callewart of Dallas, Rockwall, and Forney, TX.