MedStar Health is here to support your back and neck pain journey.
If you are experiencing neck or back pain, our multidisciplinary team is here for you. Depending on your condition and extent of your pain, you will see a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon. However, there are many specialists that you may see on your journey through treatment and recovery.
Medical Imaging
Diagnostic
MRI and CT scans are diagnostic tools used to assess the back or neck for various injuries or conditions and can help determine next steps. To schedule, call 877-676-4000. A physician referral is required.
Find out more about medical imaging.
Physical Therapy
Non-invasive
Physical therapists use non-invasive treatment methods to reduce neck and back pain and improve movement. To schedule, call 844-914-3878. You may need a physician referral, depending on your insurance.
Read more about how physical therapy may help.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Non-invasive
Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians provide non-surgical treatments, such as injections, medication, and rehabilitation to restore function and reduce pain in the neck and back. To schedule, call 202-877-1621.
Discover how physiatrists help treat spine pain.
Pain Management
Minimally-invasive
Physicians who provide non-surgical treatments, such as medication and injections, to restore function and reduce pain in the neck and back. To schedule, call 844-940-7246.
Read more about how pain management may help.
Orthopedic Surgery
Surgical
Orthopedic surgeons specialize in surgery of the spine. They treat patients with severe pain or movement limitations or numbness. To schedule:
Baltimore area: 877-346-7846
Washington, D.C. area: 855-788-6464
Meet our orthopedic surgery team.
Neurosurgery
Surgical
Neurosurgeons specialize in surgery of the brain and spine. They treat patients with severe pain or movement limitations or numbness. To schedule:
Baltimore area: 443-777-8807
Washington, D.C. area: 202-877-5026
202-444-4972
Meet our neurosurgery team.
Video Resources
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Spine Anatomy
The spine is a column of 33 vertebrae that forms the axial skeleton. This framework provides strong yet flexible support for the trunk of the body as well as protection for the delicate spinal cord housed within it.
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Cervical Spine (Neck) Anatomy
The cervical spine is the first seven bones of the vertebral column and extends from the base of the skull to the top of the thoracic spine.
Medical imaging (MRI/CT)
Exploring the Use of MRI in Back Pain Diagnosis
Accurately identifying the underlying cause of back pain is crucial. In certain cases, healthcare professionals may recommend an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to aid in the diagnosis. An MRI is a non-invasive imaging test using powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the spine.
An MRI is typically recommended when other diagnostic methods, such as X-rays or CT scans, have not provided sufficient information. It is especially useful for identifying soft tissue injuries, spinal cord compression, herniated discs, or spinal tumors. Additionally, an MRI can help determine the extent of nerve damage or inflammation present in the spine.
If you are experiencing back pain and wondering whom to see for treatment, consulting with a healthcare provider at MedStar Health is highly recommended. Our team of specialists is well-versed in diagnosing and treating back pain, utilizing advanced imaging techniques like MRI when necessary. We prioritize patient care and offer personalized treatment plans to ensure your back pain is effectively addressed.
To schedule, call 877-676-4000. A physician referral is required.
Physical therapy
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Back Pain
Physical therapy is a highly effective and non-invasive treatment option for individuals experiencing back pain. It not only provides pain relief but also improves mobility and overall quality of life. Whether dealing with a minor strain or a chronic condition, physical therapy can help you regain strength, flexibility, and function.
Several physical therapy techniques can treat back pain. Manual therapy, involving hands-on manipulation and mobilization of the spine and surrounding tissues, helps reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and restore proper alignment.
To schedule, call 844-914-3878. You may need a physician referral, depending on your insurance.
Physical medicine and rehabilitation
Understanding the Role of Physiatrists in Back Pain Treatment
A physiatrist is a specialist you should consider for back pain treatment. Physiatrists are medical doctors specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, with expertise in diagnosing and managing musculoskeletal conditions like back pain.
Physiatrists are trained to evaluate the entire musculoskeletal system, including the spine, muscles, and nerves. They take a comprehensive approach to back pain treatment, aiming to improve function and reduce pain without surgery whenever possible.
These specialists diagnose the root cause of back pain through thorough evaluations and may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or nerve studies. Based on the results, physiatrists develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
To schedule, call 844-877-1621
Pain Management
If surgery is not an option, you can meet with a pain management specialist.
Our pain management team provides leading consultative and interventional pain management services for spine pain in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. regions.
You’ll benefit from our team approach as we work closely with other medical specialists to best meet your needs. Our pain management specialists provide non-surgical treatments, such as medication and injections, to restore function and reduce pain in the neck and back.
To schedule, call 844-940-7246
Orthopedic surgery
When to consult an orthopedic surgeon?
When experiencing back pain, it is essential to seek appropriate medical care to determine the most suitable treatment option. While many cases of back pain can be effectively managed with non-surgical methods, there are instances where surgical intervention may be considered.
Surgical intervention for back pain is typically recommended when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications, have failed to provide sufficient relief. It is important to note that surgery is not the first line of treatment and is usually reserved for severe or persistent cases.
If you are experiencing back pain and considering surgical intervention, it is essential to consult with a qualified surgeon specializing in spinal conditions. At MedStar Health, our team of highly skilled surgeons can provide expert evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans to help you find relief from back pain.
To schedule:
Baltimore area: 443-777-8807
Washington, DC area: 202-444-4972
Neurosurgery
When is the right time to consult with a neurosurgeon?
Spine surgery can involve the neck or back, each of which has specific techniques and procedures that vary depending on the condition and location.
Surgery is sometimes necessary if someone experiences severe pain or movement limitations or significant weakness or numbness. In many cases, patients have tried conservative treatments of physical therapy and injections without success. Surgery can be a good option in these circumstances to ease pain, restore function and improve mobility and help the patient resume normal activities.
At MedStar Health, we specialize in the brain and spine. Our surgeons treat patients with severe pain or movement limitations or significant weakness or numbness.
To schedule:
Baltimore area: 443-777-8807
Washington, DC area: 202-444-4972