What to Expect from Pain Management

“When patients go to see a Pain Management Specialist, their pain is usually complex and chronic. Chronic pain is persistent for usually at least 3 to 6 months. By the time a patient has his or her first visit with a Pain Management Specialist, the patient is often very uncomfortable and his or her daily life has been seriously affected by pain. 

The longer someone has been in pain, of course, the faster they want to find a solution. It is important for patient to know that treatment of chronic pain can take a step-by-step approach and in many cases relief may not be immediate. For this reason, it’s very important that pain management patients have realistic expectations of their treatment. Having appropriate expectation and following treatment plans will enhance the chances of success in obtaining long lasting pain relief.  

It is not uncommon to see that a chronic pain condition has multiple roots or causes. For example, in case of a chronic shoulder pain, both neck nerve irritation and shoulder mechanical issues can give rise to chronic suffering of a patient from shoulder pain. In this particular case, both elements may be treated with appropriate medications, physical therapy, and interventions.  For every layer of pain, the specialist identifies the best treatment option. Over time, as each treatment begins to take effect, the patient’s pain gets better. Sometimes a doctor will work on one layer of pain at a time and sometimes it’s possible to work on several at once. 

Since every patient is different, a Pain Management Specialist creates a unique Pain Management Plan for every patient. This plan includes what tests need to be done and what treatments will be ordered based on the test results. It also includes what help the patient may need from other medical specialties or, if available, community or family resources. 

Pain Management patients need to play an active role in their Pain Management Plan.  Therefore, at RMH Pain Management clinic patients are always included in the creation each phase of the plan. They may need to obtain imaging or tests, take medications, participate in physical therapy or pain psychological therapy, and/or undergo procedures. During the course of treatment, patients are equipped with tools that would enable to them to maximize their quality of life and function. 

In conclusion, our physicians and staff at RMH Pain Management team up with the patient to create a comprehensive care plan. We empower the patients to take their life back one layer of pain at a time.”