Loic Bullock

Answers to patient questions

• General topics

  Hello, a few days ago I had lower back pain that extended down to my leg. After the pain subsided, I started feeling a slight tingling in my leg and having trouble with my foot—I can't lift it completely. Which doctor should I consult? Do I need to see a general practitioner first, who will then refer me further, or...?"
  • The symptoms you're describing, including lower back pain that extends to your leg, tingling, and difficulty lifting your foot (which sounds like **foot drop**), are concerning and could be indicative of a nerve-related issue, possibly involving the sciatic nerve or a condition like a herniated disc.
    
    Given these symptoms, you should consult a **neurologist** or an **orthopedic specialist** with a focus on spine health. These specialists are well-equipped to evaluate and manage conditions related to nerve impingement, herniated discs, or other spinal issues that might be causing your symptoms.
    
    ### Here’s what you can do:...
    1. **Start with a General Practitioner (GP):** In many healthcare systems, it’s common (or required) to see a GP first. They can perform an initial assessment, possibly order some imaging studies like an MRI or X-ray, and then refer you to the appropriate specialist.
    
    2. **Direct Specialist Consultation:** If your healthcare system allows or if you have direct access, you could see a neurologist or orthopedic specialist directly, especially given the neurological symptoms like tingling and foot drop.
    
    ### Why It's Important:
    - **Neurologist:** Can evaluate nerve function and determine if there's nerve compression or damage.
    - **Orthopedic Specialist (Spine):** Can assess spinal health and any structural issues that could be causing your symptoms.
    
    This condition could require timely intervention to prevent further nerve damage, so I recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Read more

    Loic Bullock

• General topics

  Who do i see if I hurt my back
  • If you hurt your back, the right person to see depends on the severity and type of pain you’re experiencing. Here’s a quick breakdown:
    
    1. Primary Care Physician (PCP)
    • Good for: Mild to moderate back pain, first-time issues, or if you’re not sure what’s wrong.
    • They can: Diagnose, prescribe meds, recommend rest or physical therapy, and refer you to a specialist if needed.
    
    2. Chiropractor
    • Good for: Muscular pain, misalignment, or stiffness (especially if you’ve had success with chiropractic care before).
    • Note: Make sure it’s not a serious injury like a fracture before going.
    
    3. Physical Ther...apist
    • Good for: Rehab from strain, sprain, or long-term back issues.
    • Usually requires: A referral from your doctor, depending on your insurance.
    
    4. Orthopedic Doctor
    • Good for: Suspected issues with bones, discs, or spine (e.g., herniated disc, sciatica, fractures).
    
    5. Neurologist or Pain Specialist
    • Good for: Nerve-related back pain (e.g., numbness, tingling, shooting pain down the leg).
    
    6. Emergency Room / Urgent Care
    • Go here if:
    • You have sudden severe pain after trauma.
    • You lose control of your bladder/bowels.
    • You feel weakness or numbness in your legs.
    • You can’t move easily or at all.
    
    If you’re unsure, starting with your primary care doctor is a safe move — they can help guide you. Want help figuring out which type of pain you’re dealing with? Read more

    Loic Bullock

• General topics

  hello which doctor is best to advice on tendon/ligament pain and arthritis in the knee? thank you
  • For tendon/ligament pain and arthritis in the knee, the best type of doctor to consult is:
    1. Orthopedic Specialist:
    • These doctors specialize in the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. They can diagnose and treat conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or ligament injuries.
    2. Sports Medicine Doctor:
    • If your pain is related to physical activity or sports, a sports medicine doctor can offer non-surgical treatments, rehabilitation plans, and advice on preventing further injury.
    3. Rheumatologist:
    • For arthritis, particularly if it’s inflammatory (e.g., rheumatoid ar...thritis or gout), a rheumatologist specializes in autoimmune and joint conditions and can provide comprehensive care.
    4. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Specialist:
    • Also known as physiatrists, these doctors focus on non-surgical treatments to improve function and reduce pain in musculoskeletal conditions.
    
    Hello,
    If you’re unsure where to start, a primary care physician can assess your symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist. Read more

    Loic Bullock