The initial assessment is one of the most important phases of your care. Please be sure to be on time for your appointment so that the check-in process can be completed in a timely manner. Be sure to bring any past medical records, films such as X-rays, MRI’s, CT’s, etc., reports for your films, and a referral from your family physician if your insurance so requires. We only require you bring medical documentation and films that are related to the problem for which you will be seen.

During your evaluation you will meet your clinical specialist, have an initial assessment and have X-rays made if you do not have current films. A physician will then complete the evaluation and initiate treatment. Expect the process to take several hours.

At Memphis Spine Center, each patient is provided a thorough evaluation in order to accurately diagnose their problem and assess risk factors. In simple acute injuries such as sprains or strains this may require only history and examination. Most spine problems improve with rest, gentle exercise, and over-the-counter analgesics such as aspirin, Tylenol, or ibuprofen. In more complex and chronic conditions, a manual physical therapy assessment, X-rays, MRI, nerve conduction studies, and/or additional testing may be necessary in order to accurately pin down your diagnosis and determine the best way to proceed with treatment.

We will build an individualized treatment program based upon the nature of your problem, its duration, your age, risk factors and general physical condition. All treatments that have shown scientific merit are considered, based upon their risk and potential benefits. Supervised exercise and education are virtually always recommended. Manual physical therapy is the cornerstone of a good conservative spine treatment program and is often recommended.