Persistent Back Pain Causes: Next Steps in Fort Worth, TX

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Persistent Back Pain Causes: Your Next Healthcare Steps in Fort Worth, TX

If you’ve been experiencing back pain that comes and goes over the past few months—especially lingering discomfort after standing for a long time—you’re not alone. It’s common to feel concerned when pain sticks around but isn’t severe enough to stop your daily routine. You’re likely wondering what could be causing this persistent lower back discomfort and what you can do about it.

This post is here to help you understand the possible next steps on your healthcare journey. We’ll guide you through which types of doctors might be the best first stop for your symptoms, what to expect during your initial visits, and the estimated costs you might find in Fort Worth, TX. You’re in the right place for clear, local, and transparent information to empower your next move.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Fort Worth, TX

When it comes to ongoing back pain, a few types of healthcare providers can be a good starting point for diagnosis and treatment. Based on your symptoms, consider these options:

  • Family Practice Doctor: A generalist who can evaluate a wide range of health concerns, including back pain. They can diagnose common causes and refer you to specialists if needed.
  • Pain Management Specialist: Focuses on diagnosing and managing chronic pain conditions. If your pain becomes more troubling or requires specialized treatment, this provider can help.
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Physiatrist): Specializes in restoring function and reducing pain, often through therapies and non-surgical treatments tailored to conditions affecting muscles and bones.
  • Orthopedic Surgeon: A surgical specialist for bones, joints, and muscles. They evaluate back pain that might need imaging or in rare cases surgical intervention.
  • Internal Medicine Doctor: Focuses on adult health and managing broader medical conditions. They can assess back pain as part of overall health and provide comprehensive care or referrals.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a breakdown of typical procedures and cost estimates for self-pay patients locally in Fort Worth, TX. These help you know what to anticipate financially before making an appointment.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A thorough evaluation of your symptoms, possible physical exam, and discussion of your health history to diagnose your back pain cause.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $192.38 (typically ranges from $144.29 to $240.48)
    This estimate is based on 350 providers in the Fort Worth area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views (CPT Code: 72100)
    Purpose: A basic imaging test to look at bones and check for fractures or abnormalities that could cause pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $83.66 (ranges from $47.32 to $120.00)
    Available at 1 provider locally.

Visit with a Pain Management Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Specialized assessment of chronic pain and discussion of possible treatment plans, including medications or therapies.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $229.20 (ranges from $145.33 to $313.06)
    Based on 20 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, minimum of 4 views (CPT Code: 72110)
    Purpose: Detailed imaging to better evaluate spine structure and potential causes of pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $89.78 (ranges from $61.15 to $118.40)
    Offered at 2 providers.

Visit with a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Assessment focused on improving mobility and function through rehabilitation strategies, addressing pain without surgery.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $197.06 (ranges from $147.79 to $246.32)
    Available across 30 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views (CPT Code: 72100)
    Purpose: Basic spine imaging to detect bone or joint issues contributing to pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $102.75 (ranges from $47.33 to $158.17)
    At 7 providers.

  • Procedure: Injection of anesthetic and/or steroid drug into sacral spine nerve root using imaging guidance, single level (CPT Code: 64483)
    Purpose: A procedure to reduce inflammation and relieve nerve-related pain in the spine.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $523.30 (ranges from $223.39 to $823.21)
    Offered by 11 providers.

  • Procedure: Injection, methylprednisolone acetate, 40 mg (CPT Code: J1030)
    Purpose: Steroid medication injection to reduce inflammation and pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $14.45 (ranges from $9.22 to $19.68)
    Available at 2 providers.

Visit with an Orthopedic Surgeon

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Specialist evaluation of your spine and musculoskeletal system to consider surgical or advanced interventions.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $196.85 (ranges from $147.64 to $246.06)
    Based on 96 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views (CPT Code: 72100)
    Purpose: Imaging for bone structure analysis to guide treatment decisions.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $65.71 (ranges from $46.58 to $84.83)
    Offered at 32 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, minimum of 4 views (CPT Code: 72110)
    Purpose: More comprehensive imaging for detailed assessment.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $90.13 (ranges from $60.32 to $119.94)
    Available at 20 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views bending views (CPT Code: 72120)
    Purpose: Specialized imaging to see spine movement and flexibility that may cause pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $59.26 (ranges from $42.40 to $76.12)
    Available at 2 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Comprehensive adult health evaluation with attention to back pain and overall conditions.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.37 (ranges from $145.78 to $242.96)
    Based on 224 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views (CPT Code: 72100)
    Purpose: Basic imaging to evaluate bones and joints in the lower spine.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $60.67 (ranges from $35.70 to $85.64)
    Offered at 1 provider.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, minimum of 4 views (CPT Code: 72110)
    Purpose: More extensive imaging for better visualization of spine structures.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $138.51 (ranges from $56.22 to $220.80)
    Available at 1 provider.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

The U.S. healthcare pricing system can feel a bit like shopping in a market where prices are negotiable but often unclear. The estimates you see reflect this reality:

  • Maximum cost estimates are usually just below the full “charged amount” – this is what providers initially ask for a procedure before any discounts or insurance adjustments.
  • Minimum cost estimates tend to be just above the amount Medicare has negotiated to pay providers (called the “Medicare allowed amount”). At this price level, providers often are breaking even or may even lose money.

Think of the max price as the “list price” and the min price as the “negotiated price”—actual amounts you pay may fall anywhere in this range depending on how you pay and if discounts apply.

Know Your Rights

When it comes to costs and billing, it’s important to know you have protections:

  • Good Faith Estimate (GFE): If you’re paying out of pocket and not using insurance, your healthcare provider is legally required to provide a clear estimate of expected charges if you ask or schedule services at least 3 business days ahead.

  • Many providers offer self-pay discounts if you ask upfront. Don’t hesitate to request: “What’s the cash price if I pay upfront?”

  • You have the right to receive a detailed, itemized bill showing specific procedures and charges. If you spot incorrect or repeated charges, you can dispute them.

  • You’re also entitled to request CPT codes and billing modifiers, which help clarify what exactly you are being billed for. Many states offer legal protections against unreasonable or “unconscionable” billing practices, especially for patients without insurance.

Taking care of your persistent back pain starts with connecting to a trusted healthcare provider. Here’s how to move forward confidently:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Reach out to a Family Practice doctor, Internal Medicine provider, or specialist such as Pain Management or Physical Medicine, depending on your preference and symptom severity.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long they’ve lasted, and any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
  3. Discuss Costs: Confirm the expected charges with the provider’s office when booking your appointment. Remember, the costs shared here are estimates and can vary.
  4. Feel Empowered: Seeking professional advice is the best step for your health and peace of mind. You are advocating for yourself by getting evaluated.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This information is provided as a general guide and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Costs and provider availability may vary. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized care.