Talking to Your Doctor About
Chronic Low Back Pain
Only your doctor can confirm if you have chronic low back pain.
If you are concerned about chronic low back pain, talking to your doctor about your pain is an important step. Here are some things you can do to prepare yourself.
1. Learn more about chronic low back pain
Find out more about the possible chronic low back pain risk factors and chronic low back pain treatment options.
Cymbalta is a non-narcotic prescription medication approved by the FDA to manage chronic musculoskeletal pain due to chronic low back pain. To learn more, please review managing chronic low back pain with Cymbalta. You can also review some commonly asked questions about Cymbalta.
2. Talk to your friends and family
If you have chronic low back pain, it is possible to feel like your friends and family do not fully understand your condition. To help your loved ones become a source of support, it is important to talk honestly about your pain.
You don't have to face your condition alone. With the support of those close to you, you can get help with challenging tasks. You may also get assistance with practical matters, like finding a doctor or helping you get to your appointments.
If a friend or family member has been diagnosed with chronic low back pain, learn more about being a caregiver.
3. Make an appointment.
Only your doctor can confirm if you have chronic low back pain. Depending on your health history and how your condition affects you, your healthcare provider can also determine what treatment options are best for you.
Prior to your appointment, you can also complete the Chronic Low Back Pain Doctor Discussion Guide. By completing the questions in this guide, you can record some notes about your pain and your health history.
You can also review a list of sample questions to ask your doctor at your appointment.