Chronic pain is unique for everyone who experiences it. No one else knows what you are going through. However, choosing the right interventional pain and regenerative medicine specialists increases your chances of getting the help you need. The following are some of the most important questions for your pain management doctor.
- What Conditions Do You Treat?
Pain management doctors may treat different types of chronic pain. Your pain is said to be chronic if you have had it for over three months and it does not get better with medication. Some specialists may specialize in specific types of pain such as migraines, neck pain, pelvic pain, cancer-related pain, and back pain. Asking this question may help you determine if they are your best option.
- What Is the Cause of My Pain?
Understanding the cause of your pain makes treatment easier. If your regenerative pain specialists cannot point out the main cause of your pain, they are unlikely to administer the right treatment. There are instances where pain may manifest in one part of the body when the source is a different body part.
- What Are the Treatment Options?
Some types of chronic pain may have various treatment options. Asking about your options is always a good idea. The right specialist should discuss the pros and cons of different treatments. They should let you know about lifestyle changes that you need to make. Common changes and treatments that you may need include:
- Dietary changes
- Losing some weight
- Getting more sleep
- Physical activity
- Improving your posture
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic treatment
- Regular massage
- Is the Pain a Sign of More Serious Issues?
Chronic pain may be an indication that you have more severe health issues. Severe chest pain, for example, may be an indication that you need urgent medical help.
- What Should I Expect?
Do not assume that your life will automatically go back to normal right after your treatment. Your specialist will help you set realistic expectations. Their answer to this question may influence your decision regarding the most appropriate treatment option.
- How Much Does the Treatment Cost?
Find out the amount you will be spending on your treatment and whether your insurance covers it. Even though this is an important consideration, it should not be the only one. The cheapest specialists are not always the best ones.
- How Can I Prevent Chronic Pain in the Future?
Getting treatment for your pain is not enough. Find out what you can do to prevent the problem from reoccurring in the future. Your specialist may come up with a plan to reduce or avoid future pain. The plan may include: reducing your intake of alcohol and tobacco, paying attention to your emotional issues, and limiting your usage of caffeine.
In conclusion, asking the right questions can help you get the best from your appointment with a pain management specialist. The doctor may help you identify the primary cause of your chronic pain and keep it from reoccurring in the future.
