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I've heard it said that it takes a village to raise a child. Well, it seems the same is true for treating back pain. I went to my doctor who sent me to a special clinic for back pain patients. I must have seen six different people. They said it was a multidisciplinary approach. Are this many people really needed to help me?

For patients with low back pain (LBP) that doesn't go away on its own or with months of conservative care, a multidisciplinary approach may be needed. Many studies show this method is effective.

Chronic LBP is thought to be more than just a back ache. There are psychologic and emotional factors involved. Patients' attitudes, beliefs, and social background seem to be important, too.

The cost of missed work, surgery, and disability from LBP is enough to warrant a team approach for some patients. Usually, the goal isn't to cure the pain. The goal of the team is to help the patient become more functional or active despite the pain. Pain relief along the way is possible but not always expected.

Your team should be made up of some, but not necessarily all of the following professionals: physician, social worker, psychologist, physical or occupational therapist, nurse, and vocational counselor. The goal is to get you back to full function at home and at work.

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