Why am I being referred to a pain management clinic?
Pain management is a specialty. If you have a chronic pain condition, you may need the expertise of a specialist at a pain management clinic. Pain management clinics provide comprehensive options for treating chronic pain.
Because pain management has become a specialty, many family doctors now refer patients to pain management clinics to ensure they receive appropriate care for chronic conditions.
What happens when your doctor refers you to pain management?
When your doctor refers you to pain management, you’ll be scheduled to visit with a pain management specialist. This specialist may be part of a multidisciplinary team that will work with you to manage your pain levels. Your regular doctor will remain a part of your team and still take care of your other routine healthcare needs.
What does pain management do on your first visit?
At your first visit to pain management, you’ll meet the pain management doctor. The specialist will review your medical history and records of testing and procedures you’ve had done. Your current medications will be reviewed. The doctor will ask you lots of questions about your current pain, how it affects your life and function, things you’ve tried for pain, and how well it worked or any side effects you’ve had. The doctor will perform a comprehensive physical exam and design a plan of care to address your condition and help you feel your best.
What do pain specialists prescribe?
Pain management specialists prescribe treatments that will help address your chronic pain. Treatments might include:
- Medications. This can include medications other than typical pain medicine. Sometimes medicines classified as anti-depressants or anti-convulsants might be used to manage chronic pain.
- Injections. Pain block or spinal injections can help control pain.
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). This machine sends out small electrical pulses that help alter pain sensation.
- Therapy or counseling. These treatments can help you learn techniques to handle the stressors of living with a chronic condition.
- Physical therapy. Strengthen muscles and prevent new injuries.
- Occupational therapy. Helps to address environmental factors at home and work to increase your function.
Can a doctor refuse to give you pain medication?
Yes, a doctor can refuse to give you pain medication. Just because you request a certain treatment, a doctor does not have to prescribe it. However, your doctor should discuss treatment options with you and help you understand why a treatment may or may not be appropriate. There may be an alternative treatment that your doctor believes is a better or safer option for you.
How long can chronic pain last?
Chronic pain is considered pain that has lasted for at least six months. Unfortunately, chronic pain can be very long-lasting, and sometimes, it may never go away. However, with pain management, you can receive treatment that allows you to enjoy your life and maintain physical function. Conditions that may cause chronic pain include:
- Headache
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Back pain
- Nerve pain
- Fibromyalgia
