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Have Back Pain? Click here to learn more.Spine Program

Overview

We are Maine’s largest and most complete resource for diagnosing spinal problems and developing treatment plans. Our expert team of physiatrists, a physical therapist, physician assistants and nurses work together to:

  • Evaluate and diagnose what’s causing your back pain
  • Design a treatment plan that’s tailored to your individual needs and lifestyle (it may be surgery but many times is not)
  • Connect you to the right healthcare professionals to provide treatment
  • Help you take care of your spine so you can live as actively and pain-free as possible

It’s a highly coordinated approach that ensures you get the care you need, when and where you need it.

The MMC Neuroscience Institute - Neurosurgery

What Is a Physiatrist?

Physiatrists (fizz-eye-ah-trists) are medical doctors with training in the specialty of physical medicine and rehabilitation. They have in-depth knowledge of body mechanics (how the body works), and they are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat physical disability and pain – taking the time to pinpoint the source of an ailment. Physiatrists treat the whole person, not just the problem area, and understand the full range of treatment options available – both surgical and nonsurgical – so the most appropriate solution can be tailored to your individual needs.

For your convenience, we offer all of the most advanced diagnostic testing for spinal problems, all in one place. And while certain treatments are offered here at our office, we also have a network of trusted providers in the community to whom we can refer you. This way, you can receive ongoing care – such as physical therapy, osteopathic manipulation or chiropractic care – closer to home.

While spinal surgery is an effective treatment – and we can help determine if you're a canidate for surgery – it’s not right for every patient with back pain. We always try the most conservative (nonsurgical) treatment measures first, unless the spine problem is so severe that surgery is the only option.

If back or neck pain is interfering with your ability to enjoy life, it may be time to visit our Spine Program team. Or, if a doctor has recommended surgery for your back problem and you would like a second opinion, let’s talk. You can rest assured that your care is in the best of hands.

For more information, please contact (207) 662-1509.
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