Frequently Asked Questions

Pain management is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of chronic pain.

A pain management doctor is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic and accute pain conditions. They use a variety of techniques, including medication, injections, physical therapy, and other therapies to manage and alleviate pain in their patients. Their goal is to improve a patient’s quality of life and overall well-being by reducing their pain and increasing their function.

The length of treatment at a pain management clinic varies depending on the individual patient and their condition. Some patients may only need a few visits, while others may require ongoing treatment for an extended period of time.

Pain diagnosis usually involves a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory tests, as needed. The severity, location, duration, and character of the pain is also considered.

 

The primary goals of pain management treatment are to relieve pain, improve physical function, enhance emotional well-being, and reduce the risk of complications, such as depression, anxiety, and opioid dependence.  
Many pain management treatments are covered by insurance, including most medical and surgical procedures, medications, and therapies. However, coverage varies depending on the insurance plan, the type of treatment, and the medical condition.  
The benefits of visiting a pain management clinic include access to a team of pain specialists, customized treatment plans, a range of non-opioid therapies, and the potential for improved pain relief and quality of life.    
During your first visit to a pain management clinic, you can expect to undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including a medical history, physical examination, diagnostic tests, and a discussion of your pain history and treatment goals. You may also receive a treatment plan and medication prescriptions, if necessary.    
No, pain management treatment is available for individuals with both acute and chronic pain. Acute pain refers to pain that typically lasts less than three months and is often associated with injury or surgery, while chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than three months and may be caused by an underlying medical condition.    
In many cases, pain management treatment can help individuals avoid surgery by relieving pain and improving physical function. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying medical condition causing the pain.    
You should bring a list of current medications, your medical history, any diagnostic tests or imaging results related to your pain, and a list of questions or concerns you may have.    
To prepare for your pain management appointment, it’s important to follow any instructions provided by the clinic, such as fasting or avoiding certain medications. You may also want to prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.    
The length of pain management treatment varies depending on the individual’s medical condition, the severity of the pain, and the effectiveness of the treatment. Some individuals may require ongoing treatment, while others may experience significant pain relief after a short period of treatment.    
Yes, pain management treatment can be combined with other medical treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, to improve pain relief and overall quality of life. It’s important to communicate with all members of your healthcare team to ensure a coordinated approach to your treatment.    
Pain management for back pain involves a comprehensive approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing the underlying causes of the pain. The treatment plan for back pain may include a range of therapies and techniques, tailored to the individual’s needs and medical condition. Some common pain management treatments for back pain may include:

  1. Medications: Pain management doctors may prescribe medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or opioid medications, to help manage pain.
  2. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help individuals with back pain improve their strength, flexibility, and range of motion through exercises and stretches.
  3. Chiropractic care: Chiropractors can use spinal manipulation techniques to alleviate pain and improve alignment in the spine.
  4. Injection therapies: Pain management doctors may use injection therapies, such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks, to alleviate pain and inflammation in the back.
  5. Radiofrequency ablation: This technique involves using heat to disrupt nerve signals and reduce pain in the back.
  6. Spinal cord stimulation: This involves placing a small device under the skin that delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord to alleviate pain.
  7. Psychological counseling: Individuals with chronic back pain may benefit from psychological counseling to address the emotional and psychological impact of their pain.
The goal of pain management for back pain is to alleviate pain, improve physical function, enhance emotional well-being, and reduce the risk of complications, such as depression, anxiety, and opioid dependence. Pain management doctors work to develop a personalized treatment plan for each individual to help them regain functionality and improve their quality of life.