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Why is my doctor sending me to a psychologist for my chronic low back pain?

Structural changes such as disc degeneration, annular tears, and end plate changes often seen in persons with chronic low back pain are also seen in populations that are asymptomatic. The absence of serious structural disease in persons with debilitating chronic low back pain could be explained by psychosocial factors. Several studies demonstrate that outcomes using cognitive behavioral therapy with a psychologist are similar to those with fusion, with fewer complications.

Reference: 

A. S. Don, E. Carragee. A brief overview of evidence-informed management of chronic low back pain with surgery. The Spine Journal. January/February 2008. Volume 8. Issue 1. Pp. 258-265.

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