Where to Get Help
Understanding Provider Types
Back pain providers generally fall into three categories:
| Category | Providers | Medical Degree | Can Diagnose | Can Prescribe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physicians | GP, Orthopedist, Pain Specialist, Physiatrist | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Licensed Non-Physician Providers | Physical Therapist, Chiropractor, Osteopath (DO) | No (doctoral-level training) | Within scope | No (DOs can) |
| Complementary Providers | Massage Therapist, Acupuncturist, Yoga Therapist | No | No | No |
Each has a role — but the starting point matters.