Where to Get Help
Provider Comparison at a Glance
| Provider | Licensed | Can Diagnose | Can Prescribe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP / Primary Care | Yes | Yes | Yes | First evaluation, coordination |
| Orthopedic Surgeon | Yes | Yes | Yes | Surgical evaluation, complex cases |
| Physiatrist (PM&R) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Non-surgical rehabilitation |
| Pain Specialist | Yes | Yes | Yes | Interventional procedures, complex pain |
| Physical Therapist | Yes | Within scope | No | Exercise programs, movement |
| Chiropractor | Yes* | Within scope | No | Short-term manual therapy |
| Massage Therapist | Varies | No | No | Symptom relief |
| Acupuncturist | Varies | No | No | Complementary pain relief |
*Licensing varies by country. Check your local regulations.