What Is a Back Doctor Called? - Names of Spine Specialists Explained

Oct, 8 2025

When a persistent ache, sharp pain, or limited movement keeps you from everyday activities, you start searching for the right professional to help. The phrase back doctor pops up in every forum, but the medical world uses several precise titles. Knowing the exact name of the specialist you need can save time, reduce costs, and lead to a faster recovery.

Quick Takeaways

• “Back doctor” is a catch‑all term that includes spine specialists, orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, physiatrists, pain‑management doctors and chiropractors.
• Choose a spine specialist for surgical issues, a physiatrist for rehab‑focused care, and a chiropractor for manual adjustments.
• Training paths differ: orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons complete extensive residencies and fellowships, while chiropractors earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.
• Typical conditions treated range from herniated discs and scoliosis to chronic low‑back pain and spinal infections.
• Getting the right referral often starts with your GP, but self‑referral is possible for chiropractors and some physiatrists.

Below we break down the most common titles you’ll see, what each specialist does, and how to decide which one fits your situation.

Primary Types of Back Specialists

Each back‑related specialty focuses on a particular aspect of spinal health. The first time you encounter them, you’ll usually see a brief definition. Below are the core professionals you might be referred to.

Spine specialist is a medical professional who concentrates on diagnosing and treating disorders of the spine, including both surgical and nonsurgical approaches. This umbrella term often includes orthopaedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and physiatrists who have additional fellowship training in spine care.

Orthopaedic surgeon is a doctor who specializes in musculoskeletal systems and performs surgeries to correct bone, joint, and ligament problems, including spinal fusion and disc replacement. Their training begins with a medical degree, a five‑year orthopaedic residency, and usually a spine fellowship.

Neurologist is a physician who diagnoses and manages neurological conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, often using medication and non‑invasive therapies. They do not perform surgery but excel at treating nerve‑related back pain, such as radiculopathy.

Physiatrist (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physician) is a doctor who focuses on restoring function after injury or disease, employing physical therapy, injections, and minimally invasive procedures. They are ideal for patients who need a multimodal, non‑surgical plan.

Rheumatologist is a specialist in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that can affect the spine, such as ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Their primary tools are disease‑modifying drugs and lifestyle counseling.

Chiropractor is a health‑care professional with a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree who uses manual adjustments to improve spinal alignment and relieve mechanical pain. They do not prescribe medication or perform surgery.

Pain‑management specialist is a physician-often an anaesthesiologist or physiatrist-who employs targeted injections, nerve blocks, and advanced pharmacology to control chronic back pain. They work closely with psychologists for biopsychosocial pain approaches.

Neurosurgeon is a surgeon who focuses on the nervous system, including complex spinal surgeries such as tumor removal, decompression, and spinal cord reconstruction. Their training is highly specialized and includes a dedicated neurosurgery residency.

How to Choose the Right Specialist

Deciding who to see depends on three main factors: the nature of your condition, the treatment you expect, and your healthcare pathway (referral vs. self‑referral).

1. Identify the core problem. If imaging shows a structural issue-like a herniated disc needing fusion-an orthopaedic surgeon or neurosurgeon is appropriate. If the pain seems nerve‑related without a clear structural cause, a neurologist or pain‑management doctor may be better.
2. Consider the treatment route. For conservative care-exercise, manual therapy, injections-a physiatrist, pain specialist, or chiropractor usually leads the plan. Surgical options require an orthopaedic surgeon or neurosurgeon.
3. Check referral requirements. In the UK, most specialists need a GP referral for NHS appointments, though you can self‑refer to private physiatrists or chiropractors.

Patient reviews, hospital affiliation, and the specialist’s experience with your specific diagnosis also matter. For example, a surgeon who has performed at least 50 lumbar fusion procedures typically has a lower complication rate than one with limited exposure.

Typical Conditions Treated by Each Specialist

• Spine specialist (general): Broad spectrum-from scoliosis to spinal trauma.
• Orthopaedic surgeon: Degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, fractures, and elective fusion.
• Neurologist: Sciatica, peripheral neuropathy, spinal cord lesions.
• Physiatrist: Chronic low‑back pain, post‑operative rehab, functional movement disorders.
• Rheumatologist: Ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory arthritis affecting the sacroiliac joints.
• Chiropractor: Mechanical lower‑back pain, minor postural imbalances.
• Pain‑management specialist: Facet joint arthritis, failed‑back‑surgery syndrome, complex regional pain.
• Neurosurgeon: Intradural tumors, spinal cord injuries, severe spinal instability.

Comparison of Back Specialists

What to Expect During Your First Appointment

Regardless of the specialist, the initial visit follows a similar pattern:

• Medical history review. You’ll discuss symptom onset, previous injuries, and lifestyle factors.
• Physical examination. The clinician checks range of motion, strength, reflexes, and any neurological deficits.
• Imaging discussion. If X‑rays, MRI, or CT scans are already available, the doctor will interpret them; otherwise they may order the appropriate study.
• Treatment plan outline. This could be a referral for physiotherapy, a prescription for medication, or a recommendation for surgical consultation.

Bring a list of current medications, previous imaging reports, and any work‑related ergonomics concerns. Doing so shortens the appointment and helps the specialist form an accurate diagnosis.

Common Misconceptions About Back Specialists

Many people mix up terminology, leading to confusion:

• “All spine surgeons are orthopaedic surgeons.” Not true-neurosurgeons also perform spine surgery, especially for intradural or cord‑related issues.
• “Chiropractors can treat all back pain.” Chiropractic care is best for mechanical pain. Inflammatory, infectious, or severe structural problems need medical doctors.
• “Physiatrists only prescribe exercises.” Modern physiatry includes advanced injections, regenerative medicine, and coordination of multidisciplinary teams.

Insurance and Cost Considerations (UK Context)

Under the NHS, most back‑related consultations require a GP referral, and the cost is covered. Private insurance plans often differentiate between surgical and non‑surgical services. For example, a private MRI ordered by a neurologist may be reimbursed at a higher rate than one ordered by a chiropractor.

If you’re self‑funding, ask about the consultation fee upfront. Many clinics provide a transparent price list for the first visit, imaging, and any follow‑up procedures.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Some back symptoms signal an emergency:

• Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control.
• Progressive weakness in the legs.
• Severe, unrelenting pain after a fall.

If any of these appear, go straight to A&E or call emergency services. A neurosurgeon or orthopaedic trauma team will assess you promptly.