Persistent Back Pain Causes and Care Options in Anaheim, CA

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Persistent Back Pain Causes and Care Options in Anaheim, CA

If you’ve been experiencing lower back pain on and off for several months — lingering, especially after standing for a long time — you’re not alone in your concern. It’s normal to want to understand what might be causing this persistent discomfort and what your next steps should be. Even if the pain isn’t severe, ongoing back issues deserve attention to ensure they don’t worsen or disrupt your daily life.

This post is here to guide you through possible causes, help you identify the right kind of healthcare provider to consult in Anaheim, CA, and give you a clear idea of what initial visits and common procedures might cost if you are paying out of pocket. Knowing this helps you feel confident and prepared before scheduling that important appointment.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Anaheim, CA

When dealing with persistent lower back pain, there are several types of healthcare providers who could be a good starting point:

  • Family Practice Doctors: Generalists who can diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions including musculoskeletal issues. They’re an excellent first stop for initial evaluation and referrals.
  • Internal Medicine Physicians: Specialists focused on adult health who can assess chronic pain and help manage underlying health factors.
  • Orthopedic Surgeons: Experts in bones, joints, and muscles. They can diagnose structural problems or injuries in your back and suggest treatments or surgery if necessary.
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialists: Focus on improving function and relieving pain through physical therapy, injections, or other non-surgical methods.
  • Pain Management Specialists: Doctors who specialize in identifying causes of chronic pain and providing treatments to manage or reduce it.

Each of these providers offers unique expertise that can help determine the cause of your back pain and recommend the best treatment approach.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a detailed look at what typical visits and procedures might involve for each provider type in Anaheim, CA, along with estimated self-pay costs:

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: This visit allows your doctor to discuss your symptoms in detail, perform a physical exam, and potentially order initial tests or imaging.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $210.93 (typically ranges from $158.20 to $263.66)
    This estimate is based on 720 providers in the Anaheim area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, minimum of 4 views (CPT Code: 72110)
    Purpose: X-rays can help identify bone issues like fractures or arthritis that might be causing your back pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $100.73 (range $55.46 to $146.00)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of lower spinal canal without contrast (CPT Code: 72148)
    Purpose: MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues, discs, nerves, and spinal cord, helping to spot herniations or nerve compression.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $574.34 (range $174.28 to $974.40)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Physician

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Medical evaluation to look for causes of back pain related to internal health issues and guide further testing.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $210.72 (range $158.04 to $263.40)
    This estimate is based on 630 providers.

Visit with an Orthopedic Surgeon

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Evaluation of musculoskeletal problems, injuries, or deformities that might require surgery or specialized treatment.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $212.95 (range $158.89 to $267.02)
    This estimate is based on 171 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views (CPT Code: 72100)
    Purpose: Quick imaging to check bones and joints in the lower back area.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $86.30 (range $53.92 to $118.69)
    This estimate is based on 52 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of pelvis, 1-2 views (CPT Code: 72170)
    Purpose: Image the pelvic bones which can sometimes relate to lower back pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $64.16 (range $37.00 to $91.33)
    This estimate is based on 18 providers.

Visit with a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Assess pain and function and recommend rehabilitation approaches like physical therapy or pain intervention.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $211.89 (range $158.92 to $264.86)
    This estimate is based on 47 providers.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of lower spinal canal without contrast (CPT Code: 72148)
    Purpose: Detailed imaging for diagnosis of soft tissue or nerve problems causing pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $562.60 (range $169.70 to $955.50)
    This estimate is based on 7 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views (CPT Code: 72100)
    Purpose: Basic bone imaging to complement clinical exam.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $73.42 (range $55.07 to $91.78)
    This estimate is based on 5 providers.

Visit with a Pain Management Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Specialized consult focusing on diagnosing and managing chronic or severe pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $235.92 (range $160.76 to $311.08)
    This estimate is based on 30 providers.

  • Procedure: Injection of lower or sacral spine facet joint using imaging guidance, single level (CPT Code: 64493)
    Purpose: Injection to reduce inflammation and control pain in the facet joints of the spine.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $668.60 (range $203.09 to $1,134.12)
    This estimate is based on 16 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of lower and sacral spine, minimum of 4 views (CPT Code: 72110)
    Purpose: Imaging to help guide treatment decisions.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $100.84 (range $63.48 to $138.20)
    This estimate is based on 4 providers.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Understanding healthcare costs can feel a bit like haggling at a market where prices aren’t fixed and negotiations happen behind the scenes. The “price” listed by providers often depends on many factors.

  • The maximum estimated cost you see is usually just below the full amount the provider may charge — think of this as their “asking price.”
  • The minimum cost is close to what Medicare, the government health insurance program, has negotiated as a fair allowed amount. Doctors often break even or may lose money at this rate.

Remember, these figures are estimates for self-paying patients and actual charges may vary based on individual circumstances, location, and provider policies.

Know Your Rights

It’s important to know your rights regarding healthcare costs:

  • Good Faith Estimate (GFE): By law, if you pay out of pocket (without using insurance), your healthcare provider must give you a clear estimate of expected charges if you ask at least 3 business days before your appointment or procedure.
  • Self-pay Discounts: Many providers offer discounts for paying cash upfront, even though it’s not required by law. Don’t hesitate to ask, “What’s the cash price if I pay upfront?”
  • Billing Transparency: You have the right to request an itemized bill explaining every charge in detail, including CPT codes and billing modifiers. If you spot errors, duplicate fees, or unreasonable charges, you can dispute them. Some states protect patients from “unconscionable” billing practices, especially for those without insurance.

Taking charge of your back pain starts with simple, clear steps:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a Family Practice physician, Internal Medicine doctor, Orthopedic surgeon, Physical Medicine specialist, or Pain Management provider in Anaheim. Any of these professionals can provide an initial evaluation.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long they’ve been recurring, factors that worsen or ease the pain, and any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
  3. Discuss Costs Upfront: When booking your appointment, ask about self-pay prices and whether you can receive a Good Faith Estimate. Confirm what you’ll be expected to pay on the day of your visit.
  4. Remember You’re Doing the Right Thing: Seeking professional advice is the best way to understand your pain and find relief. You don’t have to manage this alone.

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 blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment options.