Pain Awareness Month

Can a Pain Specialist Treat More Than My Back Pain?

Did you know that every year 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain?

Many of these people endure pain for months or years, hoping it will “go away." Unfortunately, they may not realize that untreated pain can cause other problems like physical weakness, disability, insomnia, and depression.

During Pain Awareness Month this September, we’d like to raise awareness about how pain specialists can help treat your pain.

Should I see a pain specialist?

If you, or a loved one, live with pain, you may wonder:

“When is the best time to seek treatment, and where do I start?”

Pain treatments often start with a primary care doctor, who may offer you basic pain medications and recommend physical therapy.

Depending on the health issue, you may be under the care of an orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, neurologist, or chiropractor.

Sometimes, a new pain problem may improve in a matter of days as your body heals.

However, if your pain does not start to improve over 3 to 4 weeks, or the expected time to recover while under the care of another health professional, you should visit a pain specialist.

Can a pain specialist treat more than my back pain?

Many people think that pain specialists treat only back pain and other spine problems.

While back pain is the top reason that brings people to a pain center, you may be surprised to learn that pain specialists treat various pain issues.

• Pain specialists treat common issues like headaches, sports injuries, or shoulder/knee/hip pain due to arthritis
• Pain specialists also treat rare but excruciating illnesses like phantom limb pain and neuropathic pain (caused by nervous system diseases).
• There are even certain nerve-numbing procedures that pain specialists use to treat people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

Help is available

If you are experiencing difficulties in everyday life due to a pain issue, you may feel at a loss where to find help.

Keep in mind that a pain specialist is a great option to find relief.

Pain specialists can offer treatments geared to your unique problem, to alleviate the pain and help you lead a more active life.

Contact National Spine & Pain Centers to schedule an appointment with an affiliated pain specialist today.