Frequently Asked Questions
Rendez-vous
- How do I get an appointment at the TAGMED clinic?
To obtain an appointment at the TAGMED clinic, you can call the center directly, either in Montreal at +1 (877) 672-9060 or in Terrebonne at (450) 704-4447.
You can also visit our website for more information and book your appointment online here .
- How long does it take to get an appointment?
Most appointments at the TAGMED clinic, for a person who is already a patient of our clinic, can be made on the same day or the next day. Patients requesting an emergency appointment can be seen the same day, if they are willing to travel to the Montreal or Terrebonne clinic, depending on where the clinic is open that day. We are in Terrebonne on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and in Montreal on Tuesday and Thursday. Appointments for new patients are usually made within 3 days.
- What happens during your first visit?
The first visit to the TAGMED clinic will be as follows:
- A staff member will greet you and ask you to fill out a health history form, which includes information such as your medical history, allergies or current health problems. You will be asked to sign an informed consent form. The purpose of informed consent is to ensure that the patient fully understands the implications and risks associated with a treatment, so that they can make informed and educated decisions about how they wish to proceed.
- Waiting time in the waiting room is minimal and you will be seen by our health care professional at the time of your appointment, if you are not late, of course.
- In this regard, complete the Health History Form (download here ) before you arrive for your appointment. If you are unable to do so, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to allow time to complete it before meeting with our therapist.
- Afterwards, you will meet with one of the qualified practitioners to discuss your condition and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
- Your practitioner may also perform a physical examination and/or suggest a variety of other tests (e.g., x-ray), if deemed necessary.
- If your treatment requires a physician's referral for medical imaging, it will be discussed with the practitioner and the appropriate information will be provided to obtain this request.
- Finally, your practitioner will discuss with you the steps to take regarding your treatment or care plan and can answer any other questions you may have about it so that you can make an informed decision.
- In most cases, we will be able to start the first treatment unless your condition requires further investigation to exclude underlying pathology.
- Calculate that you will be at our clinic for about 1 hour in total.
- At the end of the treatment, you should pay the fee, as you do at each visit.
- We accept cash, debit, Visa or Mastercard.
- We will print or email you a claim form for your insurance.
- You will need to schedule your next appointment with the receptionist, if suggested by your therapist.
- If your condition requires more than one treatment, we will explain how many treatments you will need and how often. Since every patient is different, and we do not know the severity or nature of your condition at the time of reading this, we are not able to provide you with more information in this regard. All of this will be discussed at your first visit. However, you will be able to get a general idea of the course of treatment for your particular condition by consulting our section on conditions and their treatment here
- How long will my first visit take?
The length of your first visit to the TAGMED clinic will depend on your reason for coming. However, in general, it will be between 30 minutes and 60 minutes.
You can help us reduce the time you spend in our clinic by completing the health history form which you can download here
Finally, if you have not been able to fill out our form, as mentioned above, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to ensure that you have enough time to complete your form, properly discuss your condition, do the evaluation and your treatment.
- What forms do I need to fill out?
If you are a new patient, you can download the necessary forms before your first visit here .
If you are an existing patient, your therapist may ask you to fill out a re-evaluation form: if you have a new condition or if you are coming for a re-evaluation of your condition after several visits.
- Will I be able to start my treatment at the first visit?
In general, you may be able to start your treatment during your first visit to the TAGMED clinic.
However, this will depend on the reasons you made the appointment and the type and level of care you need. The staff will review each case individually and make a decision on the spot at the end of the initial examination.
If you have already had X-rays, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), SCAN (computed tomography or CT scan) or ultrasound examinations and have the written reports, please make sure you have them with you on your first visit to our clinic: this will allow us to begin your treatment without delay.
Therefore, you may be able to begin treatment on your first visit to the TAGMED clinic, but this will depend on the nature of your visit and the severity of your condition: a simple back pain with no worrisome neurological symptoms can usually be treated on the first visit, whereas a herniated disc with severe numbness in the legs or arms requires medical imaging studies before starting any treatment, to ensure that there are no contraindications to treatment and that we can safely begin treatment.
. Medical management and examinations will be performed at your appointment and a personalized treatment plan will be developed to meet your specific needs.
Prix
- What are the fees for your treatments?
Fees for treatment at TAGMED vary depending on the type of treatment and services provided. We will provide you with an insurance receipt if needed and our rates are competitive. The best way to know the exact price is to consult our "prices" section. here
In general, the first visit will cost you between $100 and $130Depending on the treatment that will be required for your condition.
- Is there a consultation or examination fee?
Yes and no: TAGMED only charges a consultation fee if the patient does not wish to start treatment on the same day as the first visit and if the consultation took more than 15 minutes. However, if you have a treatment on the day of your first visit, we will not charge you a consultation fee: you will only pay the fee for the treatment you received. See the price list of treatments here. Otherwise, the fee for an initial consultation will be $85.
Similarly, there will be no charge for your initial exam if you have your treatment that same day.
For those of you who are unsure of the difference between a treatment, a consultation and a review, here is a short summary:
A consultation is a discussion between a therapist and a patient during which the therapist asks questions about your health and the condition for which you are seeing him or her, gives advice, and suggests different tests to evaluate you.
On the other hand, a review is a procedure that allows the practitioner to gather more information about the patient's health and may include physical tests (range of motion, orthopedic or neurological tests) or an evaluation based on your x-ray, MRI, SCAN or ultrasound test report.
Finally, a treatment is an intervention plan designed by a therapist to treat or alleviate the symptoms of a health condition (e.g. herniated disc) or injury (e.g. lumbar sprain). Treatment may include manual therapy, traction and/or therapies such as laser or shockwave, as appropriate. See the list of treatments offered at the TAGMED clinic here .
- How much will the first visit cost me?
The first consultation at TAGMED can cost between $75 and $185, depending on the type of treatment provided. Additional fees may apply for complementary therapies. For example, if you are seeing us for treatment of one or more herniated discs in your lower back, you will pay $130 for neuro spinal decompression treatment for one area of your spine. On the other hand, if you would rather have one neurovertebral decompression treatment for a herniated disc (or discs) in your lower back and a second treatment for a herniated disc (or discs) in your neck, it will cost $185, as these are two treatments for two different areas (the neurovertebral decompression table cannot do traction of your back and neck at the same time: it can only do one area (lower back or neck) at a time. See the complete price list by clicking here
Traitements
- What kind of patients come to us?
The TAGMED clinic is a fascinating place. It serves a wide range of patients from around the world, from athletes to people with chronic pain. Its services attract people of all ages, genders and lifestyles who are looking for state-of-the-art health care from experts in the field. Patients come to the clinic for treatments that may not be available in their area, as well as for access to specialists who can provide complex therapies. Everyone is always treated with respect and kindness, while benefiting from the latest technological and medical advances. So, if you need specialized care or want to be seen more by top professionals, TAGMED is the place to go!
- What is specific osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a manual therapy technique that consists of manipulating the body to reduce pain, discover dysfunctions and restore joint mechanics. Two very distinct osteopathic approaches are specific osteopathy and classical osteopathy. Specific osteopathy is a more modern approach that uses evidence-based findings and current technologies, while classical osteopathy returns to the original form and uses deeper manipulation of the body while relying on the osteopath's intuition and experience.
Specific osteopathy is different from classical osteopathy: it is a unique form of manual medicine focused on the precise treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunctions through evidence-based scientific treatments. This technique aims to reduce aches and pains, while providing many patients with increased mobility. Osteopaths also place importance on overall health, taking into account lifestyle and emotional states before choosing an appropriate treatment plan. It is particularly suitable for those who prefer natural alternatives to medical treatment, as osteopathy not only provides relief, but also promotes long-term well-being.
Specific osteopaths are highly skilled practitioners who not only use their hands to evaluate and treat various physical dysfunctions of the body, but also use medical imaging (X-rays, MRI, SCAN or ultrasound) and complementary high-tech therapy. These treatments are very specific to the patient's condition and therefore much more effective and safe.
For example, a herniated disc will not be treated with classical structural osteopathy mobilizations. Although this technique may provide some short-term relief, it will have no medium or long-term benefit. On the other hand, numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of neurovertebral decompression treatment for herniated discs. See some published scientific articles on neurovertebral decompression here
- Should I use ice or heat to relieve my pain?
One of the most persistent difficulties many people face is finding pain relief. Unfortunately, there is no single answer to the question of whether ice or heat is the best solution to relieve your pain. It all depends on the nature and location of the pain. If you have a muscle strain or sprain, applying ice will help reduce inflammation in the area and generally make you more comfortable. For joint problems such as arthritis that cause stiffness, heat will generally be more beneficial in soothing the area and increasing flexibility. If you are not sure which method to use, consult us for more information. See our simplified guide in French here or in English here .
- Do I need to have x-rays to receive care at TAGMED?
At TAGMED, we strive to provide the best care for all of our patients. The safety and health of our patients is our top priority, so in some cases, x-rays may be necessary in order to receive the best care possible. Our team of professionals will determine whether or not x-rays are necessary and will explain the reasons for any x-ray request. Understanding why a particular test or procedure is needed can help ease discomfort and help you make informed decisions about your care.
We all need to be careful about the frequency of our x-rays, as excessive exposure to ionizing radiation can pose a significant health risk. Physicians should only order x-rays for truly necessary examinations, ensuring that these examinations are performed in the safest possible manner, using specialized shielding and techniques. Patients also play an important role in limiting their own exposure by asking tough questions about every x-ray they may need and understanding why it is medically necessary in order to assess their own risks. By taking these steps, we can ensure that exposure to ionizing radiation is kept to an absolute minimum while providing health care professionals with the diagnostic images needed to make informed decisions.
Rest assured that if X-rays are recommended, it is because they are necessary to provide you with the most appropriate care for your health condition!
- How do I prepare for the first visit to the TAGMED clinic?
To be prepared for your first visit to the TAGMED clinic, we recommend that you:
- Prepare a list of questions and find out your current medical history (including medications you are taking).
- Take any relevant information such as the results of examinations or laboratory tests performed by a previous health care professional.
- If you have a ticket to another specialist's referral, please bring it with you.
- If you have developed any new or unusual symptoms between the time your appointment was scheduled and the time you arrive at the clinic, please report them to the health care professional who will evaluate you.
- Download, print and complete our health history form here
- Familiarize yourself with the different treatments offered by our clinic and know what you can expect.
- Also, make sure you are aware of the different risks and possible side effects associated with the treatment offered by the Tagmed clinic.
- You should also take any necessary steps (e.g., apply ice to the inflamed area) to ensure that your body is ready for further treatment.
- Finally, if you were not able to fill out our form as mentioned above, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to ensure that you have enough time to discuss your condition, do the evaluation and your treatment.
- Do your treatments at TAGMED require a doctor's referral?
Most of the treatments offered at the TAGMED clinic can be taken without a medical recommendation or prescriptionfor an initial consultation.
That being said, if your condition requires treatment for a specific condition such as a herniated disc, your general practitioner may recommend an appropriate medical imaging test (X-ray, MRI, SCAN) tailored to your needs.
If you have already had these tests done, please obtain the results and have them available at your first visit to our clinic.
- What health conditions do you treat at the TAGMED clinic?
Our experienced therapists have the expertise to assess and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic back pain, neck pain and headaches. Using highly specialized treatments, they can help relieve referred pain away from the areas that were originally injured - improving their patients' overall quality of life.
More specifically, the TAGMED clinic treats a variety of health conditions including:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (joint and muscle pain)
- Sports and/or professional injuries
- Chronic and/or acute pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Herniated disc
- Heel Spur
And many other conditions. To see the complete list and more details about each condition click here
- Are your treatments covered by my group insurance?
Treatments offered at the TAGMED clinic may be covered by your group insurance. The amount of reimbursement will depend on the terms of your insurance policy and the services that are provided. We recommend that you contact your insurance company for more information and to clarify the amount you will receive in reimbursement.
Be aware that insurance covers for care provided by professionals (e.g. osteopath or naturopath) rather than for a specific treatment, such as robotic traction (neurovertebral decompression).
Furthermore, even though we are a member of several associations, insurers can at any time include or exclude an association in a very random way, without us being informed.
- What treatments are offered at the TAGMED clinic?
TAGMED Clinic offers a variety of treatments, including osteopathy, neurovertebral decompression, laser therapy and shockwave therapy. Each of these treatments is designed to help relieve pain and improve body function. Treatments may include specific manual movements, specialized stretches or pulls, mobilizations and complementary therapies that are designed to address your condition in a very specific way with the goal of achieving quick and lasting relief.
Our forward-thinking approach to health care means we use the most reliable and well-documented technologies, backed by substantial scientific research. Get ready for an unparalleled level of care!
You can get more details about our treatments here
- Do your osteopathic treatments at TAGMED include massage?
No, the osteopathic treatments offered at TAGMED are evidence-based structural osteopathic treatments and do NOT include massage. The osteopathic techniques used may vary depending on your condition and the treatment recommended by the treating staff.
The main difference between massage therapy and osteopathy is that massage therapy is only focused on relaxation and the treatment of muscular tension, while osteopathy offers a more holistic approach to correcting structural dysfunctions and restoring normal body movement. Massage therapy will not be able to directly correct these structural dysfunctions, whereas osteopathy focuses on understanding the underlying cause of the problem and resolving it through various manual techniques.
- How long will my treatment last?
The length of each visit to the TAGMED clinic will depend on your initial treatment plan and the type of treatment used in your case. Care may vary depending on your diagnosis and may take time for more complex procedures. Nevertheless, most appointments are intended to be short and to the point, to ensure that you get the best treatment possible.
In this regard, a shockwave treatment may take 5 minutes for certain conditions while a neuro spinal decompression treatment for a herniated disc requires a combined treatment of 30 minutes in total. As for osteopathic treatments, here is our WARNING Contrary to most osteopathic clinics, we do not believe that a general treatment of a fixed duration (e.g. 60 minutes) is the most efficient way to solve the health problems for which you consult us: specific osteopathy is more precise and efficient than traditional osteopathy because the treatment is more specific and personalized to the exact condition of the patient. Therefore, the treatment in specific osteopathy generally takes from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the condition to be treated and the level of pain and/or inflammation. Generally speaking, the more pain the person is in, the less time the procedure will take since we need to relieve the pain quickly without further irritating the structure where the inflammation is occurring. Obviously, if you are looking for a long term relaxation treatment, you are not in the right place. However, if you are looking for a specific treatment, personalized to your condition, and effective, you have found the clinic that can help you.
- How much treatment will I need?
It is difficult to predict how many treatments will be required at the TAGMED clinic as this will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the treatment plan developed by the treating staff.
In addition, the amount of treatment you need at TAGMED will depend on your condition, its chronicity, severity and the therapist's recommendations. Treatments can range from a simple examination to a series of visits to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
For example, a simple recent backache may require only one treatment, while a herniated disc may need several weeks of care.
With over 30 years of experience in this field and our evidence-based clinical judgment and your imaging exams, we will be able to answer this question accurately after meeting with you.
We cannot answer such a question over the phone: this would be a demonstration of a blatant lack of competence and judgment...
"Good osteopaths do everything in their power to help their patients feel better as quickly as possible with as little treatment as necessary, ultimately reducing care to a follow-up plan as needed. They also give advice on how to avoid future problems by evaluating lifestyle activities, ergonomics, posture and orthotics."
- Are all patients treated the same way?
No, not all patients are treated the same at TAGMED. Therapists and staff take into account each patient and their unique condition to develop a personalized treatment plan that works best for each individual patient.
In short, no two treatments are the same because you are unique!
References
The guide to back pain treatments
Back pain is one of the most common health conditions people face: 80% of adults on the planet will have at least one episode of back pain in their lifetime. However, back pain can be caused by many factors and thus, will not always be treated the same way. For example, back pain caused by a herniated disc may require neuro-spinal decompression or in rare cases surgery, while back pain caused by muscle tension may only require a warm bath with Epsom salt and rest, while spinal displacement (misalignment) may only require some osteopathic treatment.
It is important to seek the appropriate treatment for the type of back pain you have as soon as possible to avoid further complications: many types of back pain will naturally worsen over time. As you can see, there are almost as many different types of treatments as there are types of back pain. What's more, the treatment can vary depending on the cause of the back pain. It is important that people consult a back specialist to discuss their back pain in order to determine the best treatment plan available. A back expert, like the one at TAGMED, can assess the cause of your back pain and provide you with a treatment plan that is appropriate for your condition. Here, we don't treat everyone the same: we have the skills and equipment to provide the best possible treatment for you.
I repeat: back pain is a complex problem and not all causes are treated in the same way.
Of course, getting an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment is essential for YOUR BACK PAIN to ensure full recovery. If you have back pain, contact TAGMED to start your journey back to health today
Your back health is in expert hands at TAGMED. Our back experts provide comprehensive assessments, customized treatments and quality care with over 30 years of experience in the field and high-tech equipment not found anywhere else in the industry.
Symptoms of back pain
The symptoms of back pain can range from mild to severe and vary depending on the cause. Common symptoms of back pain include a dull ache, tenderness or stiffness in the back, as well as muscle spasms and sharp pains. Other signs of back pain may include tingling or numbness in the back, difficulty moving certain joints or constant back pain.
- Back pain : Persistent pain and discomfort felt in the back area.
- Stiffness: Rigidity and lack of flexibility in the muscles or joints of the back.
- Stitches: Sudden and intense pain felt in the back.
- Burns: Sensation of heat or burning in the region of the back.
- Muscle spasms : Involuntary and sudden contractions of the back muscles.
- Tingling or numbness: Abnormal tingling or numbness in the back.
- Difficulty walking: Problems moving around due to pain or weakness in the back.
- Difficult to get up from a sitting position Problems moving from sitting to standing due to back pain or stiffness.
- Very sore back for the first 30 to 60 minutes after waking up in the morning Severe pain in the back felt soon after waking up.
- Pain in the buttock: Discomfort or pain felt in the buttock area.
- Radiating pain in the thigh: Pain felt along the thigh, in the front, side or back.
- Radiating pain in the groin: Pain that spreads to the groin area.
- Pain radiating to the knee: Pain that spreads to the knee.
- Calf pain: Discomfort or pain felt in the calf area.
- Foot pain: Pain felt on the top, side or bottom of the foot.
- Pain after a few minutes sitting: Pain in the back that occurs after a short period of sitting.
- Pain after a few minutes standing and leaning slightly forward: Pain in the back after standing and leaning slightly forward for some time, such as when washing dishes.
Attention: it is not because you have one or more of these symptoms that you necessarily only have back pain. For example, although groin pain could be caused by an irritated or compressed nerve from a herniated disc or arthritic foraminal stenosis, it could just as easily be traumatic, muscular, joint or inflammatory in nature (Ex . premature wear of the cartilage of the hip). A more serious pathology could be at the origin of your symptoms: sometimes, this groin pain symptom could be secondary to a urinary or digestive tract pathology. Now you understand the complexity of a so-called simple back pain.
Causes of back pain
Back pain can have many causes, ranging from minor to serious. The most common causes are muscle strains, herniated discs, arthritis and poor posture. Osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, vertebral fractures and sacroiliac joint dysfunction are other causes of back pain. Here are some of the most common causes of back pain, along with additional information about each cause:
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Muscle strains: Muscle strains occur when muscles or ligaments in the back are stretched or torn. This can result from strenuous physical activity, a sudden movement or an accident. Muscle strains usually cause sharp pain and may be accompanied by muscle spasms.
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Sprain: A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn, usually as a result of a sudden movement, fall or accident. Sprains cause sharp pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
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Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when an intervertebral disc, located between the vertebrae of the spine, shifts or ruptures. This can lead to compression of surrounding nerves, causing sharp, radiating pain in the back, buttocks, and legs.
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Spinal displacement (misalignment): Vertebral displacement, also known as vertebral subluxation, occurs when vertebrae are misaligned. This can lead to nerve compression and back pain. Spinal displacements can result from an accident, poor posture or repetitive movements.
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Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that covers the ends of bones gradually deteriorates. This wear and tear can be caused by several factors, such as aging, injury, inflammation and overuse of the joints. Symptoms of osteoarthritis typically include pain, stiffness, loss of mobility, and in some cases joint deformities.
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the facet joints of the spine. When it affects the spine, osteoarthritis can cause nerve compression and pain in the back, neck and limbs. Treatment for osteoarthritis of the spine may include medication to relieve pain and inflammation, strengthening and stretching exercises to improve mobility and function, corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, and, in some cases, surgery to correct deformities or stabilize the joints.
It is important to note that osteoarthritis is a progressive disease, which means that it can get worse over time if not treated properly. People with osteoarthritis should work closely with their doctor and other healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan to manage their symptoms and prevent future complications.
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Bad posture: Poor posture, such as hunching over or sitting for long periods of time, can lead to back strain and pain. Poor posture can also cause muscle imbalances and spinal problems.
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Disc bulge: Disc bulging is a condition in which the intervertebral disc shifts slightly out of its normal position without rupturing. This condition can cause mild to moderate pain and can progress to a herniated disc if left untreated.
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Foraminal or vertebral stenosis: Foraminal or vertebral stenosis is a narrowing of spaces in the spine, which can compress nerves and cause back pain. This condition is often caused by arthritis or osteoarthritis and can cause sharp, radiating pain.
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Disc narrowing: Disc narrowing is a compression of the intervertebral discs due to the decrease in space between the vertebrae. This can cause back pain and mobility issues.
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Desiccation or dehydration of the disc: Disc desiccation or dehydration is a condition in which the intervertebral discs lose their hydration and become more rigid. This can cause back pain and reduced mobility.
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Facet arthritis: Facet osteoarthritis is a degeneration of the facet joints located between the vertebrae of the spine. This condition can cause pain and stiffness in the back, as well as decreased mobility.
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Vertebral fractures: Vertebral fractures occur when one or more vertebrae are damaged or broken, usually as a result of trauma, a fall, or an underlying disease. Spinal fractures can cause severe pain and often require immediate medical treatment.
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Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (displacement of the pelvis): Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a condition in which the sacroiliac joint, located between the sacrum and the iliac bone, becomes unstable or dysfunctional. This condition can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.
Diagnosis of back pain
Diagnosing back pain requires a comprehensive approach, using a combination of diagnostic tests and a thorough physical examination. TAGMED's back specialist is experienced in diagnosing the cause of back pain, not just the symptoms.
The back expert will begin with a thorough review of your medical history. This includes details about your back pain, such as when it started, what makes it better or worse, any other symptoms you may have, and any previous back injuries or treatments.
A trained back professional will then perform a physical examination to evaluate the muscles and joints in your back. This examination may include tests such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans or ultrasounds. Based on the results of these tests, the back specialist may recommend additional tests.
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History of the patient's health condition: It is a collection of information about the patient's past and present health problems, including illnesses, surgeries, medical treatments and medications used.
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Review of medical history: Evaluation of the patient's medical history, including family illnesses, allergies, lifestyle habits and risk factors for certain conditions.
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Physical examination: Assessment of the general health of the patient using techniques of observation, palpation, percussion and auscultation. This may include checking vital signs, examining body systems, and assessing mobility and muscle strength.
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X-rays: A medical imaging technique that uses x-rays to visualize internal body structures, particularly bones and joints, to help diagnose various conditions.
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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): A non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to obtain detailed images of the body's internal organs and tissues, helping to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions.
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SCAN or axial tomography (CT): Medical imaging technique that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional images of the body. CT provides detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues, helping to diagnose various conditions and plan medical treatments.
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Fluoroscopy: A real-time medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to visualize internal body structures in motion. Fluoroscopy is often used to guide medical and surgical procedures or to study the functioning of internal organs.
A patient's history can help identify:
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Dominant back or leg pain: This is a pain that manifests mainly either in the back region or in the leg. The pain may be localized to a specific location or felt over a larger area, depending on the underlying cause.
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Intermittent or constant pain: Intermittent pain occurs in episodes and alternates with painless periods, while constant pain is present continuously, without respite. The nature of the pain can help determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.
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Associated aggravating movement: These are specific movements or activities that exacerbate the pain experienced by the patient. Identifying these movements can help determine the cause of pain and avoid actions that cause symptoms to worsen.
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Non-mechanical vs. mechanical pain: Mechanical pain is usually caused by structural problems or tissue damage, and is often made worse by movement or position. Non-mechanical pain is generally less influenced by movement and can be caused by infections, inflammations or vascular problems, among others.
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The presence of a red flag or a medical emergency (e.g. cauda equina syndrome): Red flags are signs or symptoms that indicate a medical emergency or potentially serious condition that requires immediate attention. For example, cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency characterized by compression of the nerves at the base of the spine, which can lead to loss of motor and sensory function as well as problems with bladder control and intestines.
Physical examination of the patient can help determine if:
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There is muscle tenderness or spasm: During the physical exam, the healthcare professional assesses muscle tenderness by gently palpating the painful area. A muscle spasm can be detected by excessive tension or involuntary tightening of the muscle. The presence of muscle tenderness or spasm may indicate an underlying problem such as injury, inflammation, or muscle tension.
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There is a deformation or mass: The healthcare professional will visually and palpate the affected area for any deformity, such as an abnormal curvature of the spine, or a mass, such as a tumor or cyst. These abnormalities may indicate a structural cause of the pain, such as a fracture, herniated disc, or tumor.
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There is a limitation of the range of motion: Range of motion refers to the ability of a joint to move freely in all directions. The healthcare professional will ask the patient to perform various movements to assess the range of motion of the spine and other involved joints. A limitation in range of motion can be due to joint problems, adhesions, or soft tissue damage.
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There is a neurological deficit: A neurological deficit is an alteration of nerve function, which can manifest itself in muscle weakness, sensory disturbances or abnormal reflexes. The healthcare professional will perform specific tests to assess the patient's neurological function, such as muscle strength tests, skin sensitivity tests, and reflex tests. A neurological deficit may indicate nerve damage, such as nerve compression due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
Treatment of back pain
Treatment for back pain can vary depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Treatment options generally include conservative and more advanced methods. For mild back pain, conservative treatments such as rest, heat/cold therapy, stretching and massage may be recommended. Over-the-counter medications may be used, depending on your doctor's advice.
For more severe back pain, a back specialist may recommend neurovertebral decompression, physical therapy, injections or surgery.
- Rest: It is essential to rest when suffering from back pain to allow the body to heal. However, prolonged rest is not recommended, as it can lead to muscle weakness and worsen pain. Check out our guide for activities and exercises to avoid so as not to make your condition worse.(see our guide to find out which activity or exercise to avoid)
- Heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold can help relieve back pain by reducing inflammation and promoting muscle relaxation. Check out our guide on when to use heat or cold depending on your situation. (see our guide on when to use heat or cold)
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Neurovertebral decompression: This non-surgical treatment aims to relieve pressure on the intervertebral discs and nerves, which can reduce pain and improve mobility. It can be performed using a specialized medical device or by a healthcare professional.
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Over-the-counter medications or medications prescribed by your doctor Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pain relievers, and muscle relaxants can be used to relieve back pain. They can be obtained over the counter or prescribed by your doctor depending on the severity of your pain and your medical history.
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Spinal manipulations or manual medicine therapy (e.g. osteopathy): Healthcare professionals, such as osteopaths, chiropractors, or physical therapists, may use manual techniques to adjust or manipulate the spine and relieve pain. These treatments aim to improve the mobility and function of the spinal joints.
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Injections: Injections of corticosteroids or local anesthetics may be given to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in specific areas of the back. These injections are usually prescribed by a doctor and administered by a healthcare professional.
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Surgery : Surgery is generally considered an option of last resort for back pain that does not respond to conservative treatments. Surgical procedures may include spinal fusion, discectomy, or laminectomy. The decision to have surgery should be made in consultation with your doctor, who will assess the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.
Causes of back pain | Spinal decompression | Osteopathy | Medications | Injections | Efficiency |
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Muscle strains | Not recommended | Yes | Yes | Sometimes | Variable |
Sprain | Not recommended | Yes | Yes | Sometimes | Variable |
Herniated disc | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Vertebral displacement (misalignment) | Yes | Yes | No | No | Good |
Osteoarthritis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Bad posture | Not recommended | Yes | No | No | Variable |
Disc bulge | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Foraminal or spinal stenosis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Disc pinch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Desiccation or dehydration of the disc | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Facet arthritis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good |
Vertebral fractures | Not recommended | No | Yes | Yes | Variable |
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction | Not recommended | Yes | Yes | Sometimes | Variable |
Please note that this information is given for general purposes and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Each individual is unique and may require different treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment appropriate to your situation.
At TAGMED, our back experts have the experience, knowledge and technology to diagnose and treat back pain. Our team of world-renowned back pain management professionals can provide the right care and treatment for your back problem. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you manage your back pain.
Preparations for the treatment of back pain
- Make your appointment online or contact our staff from there TAGMED clinic to make your appointment by phone.
- Before to go to there TAGMED clinic from Montreal or Terrebonne for a first treatment, there are some things that you absolutely should do. All offirst, make sure ofhave your medical imaging reports (X-ray, MRI or ultrasound) available.
- After that, download, print and fill out our form more below, with all relevant information that may be necessary for your treatment. Finally, before going to there TAGMED clinic for your first treatment, familiarize yourself with the different treatments offered by our clinic and know what to expect.
- Also make sure ofto be aware of the different risks and possible side effects associated At treatment propose by there Tagmed clinic. You should also take all necessary measures (e.g. apply there ice at the inflamed area) to ensure that your body is ready to receive a new treatment.
- Finally, if you were unable to complete our form, such that mention more top, arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time to ensure you have plenty of time to discuss your condition, make the assessment and your treatment.
To be completed before your consultation at TAGMED clinic
TAGMED Clinic
Terrebonne:
1150 Lévis Street, suite 200, Terrebonne, QC, J6W 5S6
(450) 704-4447
TAGMED Clinic
Montreal
1140 Beaumont Avenue, Mount Royal, QC, H3P 3E5
1-877-672-9060