Pain can be distracting or debilitating. If you suffer from chronic pain and you've been unable to find relief, it may be time to see a specialist. Pain management clinics cater to patients who have hard-to-treat pain caused by a number of different conditions, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. Proper pain management can restore your quality of life, reduce your risk of depression, and allow you to thrive. Here are some of the things that doctors at a pain clinic can do for you:
1. Listen to your problems
Many chronic pain patients have the frustrating experience of being dismissed when they seek medical attention. When doctors can't find the source of a person's pain, they may offer unhelpful and sometimes ineffective solutions. Pain management doctors have extensive experience treating patients with pain whose origin is difficult to pinpoint. At a pain management clinic, you will receive caring and attentive care. Your doctor will listen to your problem and do their best to help you find a solution. For many chronic pain patients, being taken seriously from the outset can be a major relief.
2. Offer natural solutions
Some natural remedies can be highly effective at minimizing a patient's overall pain levels. Many pain management specialists take a multifaceted approach to treating pain. Using multiple methodologies can offer patients maximum relief. Natural remedies like acupuncture, massage therapy, and gentle exercise can reduce pain in the body. If patients are open to it, pain doctors may suggest that patients try medical marijuana for its pain-relieving properties. If applicable, your doctor can write you a note that will allow you to access medical marijuana in your state.
3. Prescribe pain medication
People who suffer from chronic pain often spend years self-medicating with over-the-counter painkillers. These drugs may be somewhat effective, but over time, they can damage a person's liver and stomach. Additionally, over-the-counter pain medication may not be strong enough to deal with severe types of chronic pain. Fortunately, pain management doctors can help by prescribing pain medication to their patients.
Prescription pain medication is stronger than over-the-counter options, such as NSAIDs. Because of their addictive potential, opiate painkillers are considered controlled substances. Doctors, therefore, weigh the potential risks with the benefits of these drugs before prescribing them to patients. Your doctor at a pain management clinic can help you access the medication you need, adjusting your dosage as necessary to keep you both comfortable and healthy.
