Pain management specialists are medical doctors who specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of acute, chronic, and cancer pain. They can also treat pain that is a result of surgery, injury, nerve damage, metabolic problems, or no known cause. Pain management specialists understand the physiology of pain, have the ability to evaluate patients with complex pain problems, use specialized test for pain diagnosis, prescribe the appropriate medications for pain, and have skills to perform pain management procedures such as nerve blocks and spinal injections.
Did You Know?
Pain management specialists work closely with other medical professionals, such as your primary care physician, to offer you a comprehensive pain management plan composed of psychological, physical, and rehabilitative care.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to see a pain management specialist?
You may need to see a pain management specialist if you have been experiencing chronic pain that has or does not have a cause. Pain management specialists can alleviate pain that stems from the following conditions: bone fractures, ligament and tendon damage, muscle damage, back and lower back pain, headaches, visceral pain, or genital pain. They can also alleviate pain caused by inflammation, nerve damage, genetics, bone loss, muscle tissue loss, age, and mechanical wear and tear.
What can I expect when seeing a pain management specialist?
During your appointment with a pain management specialist, you will be asked about your medical history, current symptoms and medications, and any diagnostic tests that have been formerly completed. Then, a physical examination will be performed and additional diagnostic tests may be ordered. Your pain management specialist will develop a specialized treatment plan for your pain based on your initial conversation, medical history, and diagnostic information.
Will I need to follow any special instructions after seeing a pain management specialist?
After your appointment, you may be given special instructions to follow. Pain management treatment plans generally utilize a combination of pharmacotherapy, non-pharmacological therapy, and interventional pain treatments, however your specific treatment plan may vary. Your individual treatment plan will dictate what special instructions you will need to follow after your appointment. For the most successful outcome, it is essential to follow any instructions given to you by your pain management specialist.