What to Expect from a Pain Management Doctor

What to Expect from a Pain Management Doctor

Pain management is not just pain relief. It's a growing specialty of medicine that focuses on reducing pain and improving the quality of life for patients with pain-related conditions, such as chronic pain. Pain management doctors are medical professionals who have expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing pain to improve patients' well-being.

What is a pain management doctor?

A pain management doctor is a medical professional who focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing pain to improve patients' well-being. A pain management doctor treats chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia or back pain, but they can also treat acute pain problems like after surgery or an injury. This type of specialist helps reduce the need for opioids and other pain medications and improve the quality of life.

What to expect from a pain management doctor

When you visit a pain management doctor, they will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history and current pain symptoms. They may order tests such as blood work or an MRI to help diagnose the source of your pain. After diagnosing your pain, the pain management doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan. This may include medication, therapy, or surgery.

What will my appointment be like?

Your appointment with a pain management doctor will likely last around an hour. You'll discuss your medical history and current pain symptoms. The pain management doctor will perform a physical exam and possibly order tests. The doctor may order tests such as blood work or an MRI to help diagnose the pain.

Will there be any pain or discomfort involved?

Depending on the tests that are run, you may undergo blood work, which is a quick pinch, or potentially an ultrasound or MRI, which are both painless. Your initial appointment won't involve any extreme treatment.

What do I need to bring?

Bringing a complete history of your medical situation to your appointment is important so that your doctor can have a good understanding of your medical history. If you'd like, you could also bring a trusted friend or family member for support. If you think you'll have blood work, double-check with the office to see their policy on whether or not you should eat or fast beforehand.

What sort of treatments can they offer me?

A pain management doctor may recommend medications for chronic pain such as NSAID pain relievers, or therapies like physical therapy and acupuncture. For more information on the types of medications used for pain management, click here. They may also suggest surgery if it is appropriate for your condition. A pain management doctor will work with you to create a pain relief plan.

How long does it take to diagnose the problem?

It can take some time to diagnose the pain. It depends on the condition you're suffering from, and what types of symptoms are being displayed. There are many things that go into diagnosing the cause of an underlying issue, and if you'd like more information on how pain management doctors go about making their diagnosis, click here.  

Will I have to take pain medication for the rest of my life?

This is a question that can only be answered on a case-by-case basis. Pain management doctors work with patients to find the best possible treatment plan, which may or may not include medication. There are many different types of pain medication, and some are used temporarily, and some are long-term.

If you are suffering from pain, it's important to find the right medical professional who will be able to diagnose and treat your pain.  If you would like more information about how our pain management doctors go about making diagnosis and treatment plans, contact us. The experts at First State Orthopaedics are ready and waiting to partner with you so we can help make sure you get the best possible care available. We look forward to hearing from you soon!