Maryville, TN
Why Is My Doctor Sending Me to Pain Management?
If your primary care physician recently referred you to a pain management specialist, you may be wondering why you’re being sent to pain management. This is a common question among patients, and knowing the reasons behind this referral can help you prepare for your upcoming appointment and receive the care you need.
Find out what a pain management clinic is, why your doctor might have recommended it, and what to expect during your first visit here.
What Is a Pain Management Clinic?
Pain management clinics are specialized healthcare facilities that diagnose, treat, and manage chronic pain conditions. They are staffed by a team of medical professionals, including pain management physicians and other specialists, who collaborate to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.
Why Is My Doctor Sending Me to Pain Management?
There are several reasons why your primary care physician may refer you to a pain specialist. Some of the most common reasons include
1. Chronic or Persistent Pain
If you’ve been experiencing pain for an extended period, typically longer than three months, your doctor may believe a pain management specialist can provide more effective treatment.
2. Complex or Difficult to Treat Pain
Certain conditions, like neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome, or chronic migraines, can be hard to treat with standard methods. In these cases, a pain management center may have the advanced techniques to address your needs better.
3. Ineffective or Insufficient Pain Relief
If you aren’t seeing results from your current treatment plan, such as medication or physical therapy, or it’s causing undesirable side effects, your doctor may refer you to a pain clinic to explore alternative options.
4. Opioid Dependence or Abuse
If you’ve been taking opioid medications for pain management and your physician is concerned about the potential for dependence or abuse, they may refer you to a clinic that can help you transition to safer, non-opioid pain relief strategies.
5. Comorbid Conditions
Pain is frequently linked to or worsened by other health issues like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or cancer. If you’re facing these challenges, a pain management center will work with your primary care doctor to create a treatment plan that addresses both your pain and the underlying condition.
What Are Some Common Pain Management Techniques?
Medication Management
To manage your pain, a specialist might recommend medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), medications for neuropathic pain, or opioids in certain situations.
Interventional Procedures
These treatments involve epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, or nerve blocks that target particular areas of pain to reduce inflammation or interrupt pain signals.
Complementary Therapies
Pain management clinics may also incorporate complementary techniques, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, extra corporeal shockwave therapy, interventional pain injections, or massage therapy, to provide a more holistic approach to pain relief.
Lifestyle Modifications
Your pain management team may recommend adjustments to your diet, exercise regimen, sleep patterns, or stress management strategies to support your overall well-being and pain management efforts.
What Happens At Your First Appointment?
During your initial visit, the team will review your medical history and assess your symptoms through a physical exam. They might order tests like scans or nerve conduction studies to better understand your pain. Using this information, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan, including medication, therapy, or injections.
As mentioned above, your pain specialist will work closely with your other doctors to ensure thorough care, regularly check your progress, and adjust treatment as necessary.
Contact Our Maryville and Greater Knoxville Pain Management Specialists Today!
If you’re experiencing chronic or persistent pain and your primary care physician has referred you to a pain management specialist, contact Grace Point Pain Management today! Our experienced pain management experts are dedicated to helping you find relief.
Call us at 865-503-6865 to schedule your initial consultation!
OPEN:
9 AM to 4:30 PM
MON. thru THURS.
PMC# 0000000987
2020 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy
2012 Chilhowee Medical Park
Maryville, TN 37804