Pain can come in many forms and degrees of severity, but when it becomes chronic, or the overriding aspect of one's life, the help of a specialist may be required. Pain specialists are doctors who have been trained to diagnose the cause of the discomfort and provide treatment.
Anesthesiologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons often specialize in this type of management, though orthopedic surgeons and oncologists also often have extensive experience. These health care specialists often consult with other physicians to coordinate patient care. They can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices and clinics.
In making a diagnosis, these experts employ a variety of techniques, such as considering personal and family medical history, assessing the patient's lifestyle, reviewing previous tests and performing their own medical exam. A diagnosis of chronic pain likely will be reached if the patient has had long-term complaints of discomfort, there is minimal relief from standard treatments, there is a history of seeing many different physicians and there has been a frequent use of nonspecific medications.
The type of treatment chosen can depend on how severe the discomfort is that is being experienced. Implantable devices, injections, medications, nerve blocks, physical therapy and surgery can all be used. Alternative forms of treatment can include hypnosis, relaxation, acupuncture, meditation and cognitive behavioral therapy. Measures developed to reduce or manage pain during other procedures, such as child birth and surgery, are now being used to treat chronic cases.
Without treatment, chronic pain can hamper nearly every aspect of the patient's life. Work may become difficult, they may lose their appetite, not be able to sleep and eventually become depressed. Family relations can become strained and the need to relieve pain may become so great the patient can become drug-dependent.
When seeking out a specialist, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind:
*Find someone who is knowledgeable about the most modern treatments.
*Someone who listens well. Each case can be different and the specialist should not treat every patient the same.
*Someone who has a good reputation in the community.
*Patients should feel comfortable asking questions and be allowed to disagree with the doctor regarding courses of treatment.
Not only can these physicians diagnose the cause of the pain, they will know the most modern techniques for managing the condition that will not make the situation worse. Whether brought on by a past traumatic event or a disease, dealing with chronic pain properly will require the advice of a management specialist.
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