Comprehensive pain management at the Padda Institute means finding the underlying cause of your pain with advanced diagnostic tools. Then we treat that root problem with a plan built for you. It may use medication, physical therapy, mindfulness, hypnosis or nerve stimulation to match the type and severity of your pain.
Pain management is a key part of health care. Its goal is to ease pain and improve life for people with acute or chronic pain. Pain can come from many things, such as injury, illness, or conditions that come with age. Managing pain takes teamwork between the patient and the provider. That keeps care on track and avoids mistakes. There are many ways to manage pain. They include medication, physical therapy, mindfulness, hypnosis, nerve stimulation, and more. The choice depends on the type and severity of the pain and on your medical history. For instance, medication may be used for short-term relief. Physical therapy may be used for the long haul. The root problem must be treated, not just the symptoms. For example, say someone has back pain from a herniated disc. The disc needs treatment. Covering up the symptoms with pills is not enough. Conditions that come with age may need a different approach altogether. Mindfulness, such as meditation, can also help. It trains the mind to focus on something other than the pain. Hypnosis has been shown to reduce chronic pain by changing how a person feels it. Nerve stimulation is another tool for chronic pain. It sends electrical pulses through the nerves that carry signals from painful areas, and that blocks the signals. Patients should also speak openly with their providers. Tell them how much pain you are in and any side effects from treatment. Pain management centers can also give extra support to people with chronic or severe pain. At the Padda Institute Center for Interventional Pain Management, we know each person’s pain is different. That is why we build care around you. Our experts use advanced diagnostic tools to find the cause of your pain. Then they build a treatment plan for your needs. We pair the newest methods with real care. Our goal is to help you beat pain and get your life back. It’s time to take on your pain and get the results countless patients in St. Louis, Missouri have already seen. Visit www.painmd.tv to learn more about our pain management care.
What are the main types of pain?
Chronic pain is pain that lasts more than 12 weeks. It can come from arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic low back pain, and other conditions. It is hard to manage because it does not let up. It may need a mix of treatments, such as drugs, physical therapy, and talk therapy. Neuropathic pain is chronic pain caused by damage to the nervous system or by nerves that misfire. People often call it burning, shooting, or stabbing. It can be hard to manage. It may need a mix of drugs, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and opioids. Acute pain, on the other hand, comes on suddenly and does not last. It usually lasts less than six months. It can come from an injury or surgery. Acute pain can be managed with local anesthetics, like lidocaine injections or creams. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen also work well for acute pain. In severe cases, opioids may be prescribed for short-term use. Cancer pain is chronic pain caused by cancer treatment or by the disease itself. Cancer-related bone pain is one example. It can be managed with a mix of drugs. These include opioids, non-opioid pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs, and helper drugs like antidepressants and anticonvulsants. To manage chronic low back pain, first find the cause(s). Then build the treatment plan. Physical therapy exercises often help strengthen the muscles of the lower back. Heat, cold, or electrical stimulation can calm inflammation in the area. For nerve pain, we covered drugs earlier. They include antidepressants (such as duloxetine), anticonvulsants (such as gabapentin), and opioids. Options without drugs include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). CBT finds the negative thoughts and habits that feed chronic pain. Then it builds ways to replace them with better ones. MBSR is a form of meditation. It helps people focus on the present moment and lowers stress.
How do you take chronic pain medication safely?
Follow the Prescribed Dosage and Schedule
Follow the dose and schedule your provider gave you. These instructions get you the most pain relief with the least risk of side effects. Taking more than the set amount can cause harm, such as organ damage or even death. Do not skip doses or take your medication at random times. That can make drug levels rise and fall. The result can be breakthrough pain, rebound headaches, or other symptoms. If you forget a dose, do not double up on the next one. Call your provider for advice instead.
Practice Open Communication with Your Healthcare Provider
Talk openly with your provider when you take medication for chronic pain. They need to know about any change in your condition. They need to know about side effects that worry you. Your doctor can then change the drug or the dose. Also tell them about every other medication you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some drugs may interact with each other and raise the risk of side effects.
Be Aware of Potential Side Effects
Drugs for chronic pain can ease pain. But they often bring side effects. Some are unpleasant. Some are dangerous if ignored. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, constipation, and dry mouth. To cut these risks, drink plenty of water through the day. Taking medication with food may also help settle an upset stomach caused by some drugs. Get medical help right away if you have severe or lasting side effects. These include trouble breathing, chest pain, or swelling of your face or throat. A study conducted by The American Pain Society looked at this. It found that patients who stuck to their prescribed medication plan had a significant drop in pain compared to those who did not. The study also found that patients who talked openly with their providers about their pain did better. Are you tired of managing pain with quick fixes that wear off? The Padda Institute Center for Interventional Pain Management offers a fresh way to beat chronic pain. We focus on minimally invasive procedures. Our skilled team gives you the most advanced treatments that work. As pioneers in interventional pain, we are proud to offer patients in St. Louis, Missouri new solutions that can significantly improve their lives. Don’t let pain define you any longer – visit www.painmd.tv and see what our pain management methods can do for you.
Which medications treat chronic and nerve pain?
Non-opioid pain relievers such as NSAIDs and acetaminophen are often used for mild to moderate pain. For more severe pain or nerve pain, doctors may prescribe antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs. Antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often used as pain medication. TCAs change the levels of brain chemicals involved in feeling pain. SSRIs also change these chemical levels. They can help with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia. Antiepileptic drugs such as gabapentin and pregabalin also work for nerve pain. These drugs change the levels of the brain chemicals that add to the feeling of pain. Opioids work for severe pain. But they carry a high risk of addiction and overdose. That makes them a poor fit for long-term use. Opioids should only be used under close medical supervision. NSAIDs are among the most common non-opioid pain relievers for mild to moderate pain. They work by cutting inflammation. Inflammation often goes with acute or chronic pain, such as arthritis or menstrual cramps. Acetaminophen is another common non-opioid pain reliever for mild to moderate pain. It blocks certain chemicals in the brain that make us feel pain. But both NSAIDs and acetaminophen have limits for chronic pain or nerve pain. This is where antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs come in. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) were first made to treat depression. Since then, they have been found to help chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, neuropathy, and post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles). TCAs block the brain from soaking back up certain chemicals, and that can help lower pain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are another type of antidepressant. They have been found to help chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic headaches. SSRIs raise serotonin levels in the brain. That can help steady mood and lower pain. Antiepileptic drugs such as gabapentin and pregabalin have also been found to help nerve pain. Examples include diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, and trigeminal neuralgia (sharp nerve pain in the face). These drugs bind to certain receptors in the brain that pass along pain signals. These drugs can help chronic pain or nerve pain. But they come with their own side effects. For example, TCAs can cause dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness. SSRIs can cause nausea, insomnia, and sexual problems. Antiepileptic drugs can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain. These drugs may work for chronic pain or nerve pain. But they should only be used under close medical supervision. Talk with your provider about possible side effects before you start any new medication.
Mild to Moderate Pain: Treatment Options and Recommendations
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are often the first line of defense. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin all ease pain and lower inflammation. Acetaminophen is best for headaches and fever. Ibuprofen and aspirin are better at lowering inflammation. Follow the dose on the label when you take OTC pain relievers. Too much acetaminophen can damage the liver. Too much ibuprofen or aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. These drugs may also interact with other drugs you take. So check with your doctor or pharmacist before you take them.
Alternative Treatments
OTC pain relievers can help mild to moderate pain. But some people want treatments that do not use drugs. Acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care are all examples. Acupuncture places thin needles into specific points on the body. It is thought to spark the body’s own healing and help physical and emotional health. Massage therapy works the soft tissues of the body. It improves blood flow, eases tension, and helps you relax. Chiropractic care lines up the spine and other joints to ease pain and help you move. These treatments can ease pain for some people. But they may not work for everyone. Choose a practitioner who is fully trained in the field.
Treating Children
Talk to a pediatrician before you give a child any medication or alternative treatment. Some drugs may not be safe for children under a certain age. Some alternative treatments may not fit certain conditions. If medication is recommended, follow the dose based on the child’s weight. Choose a medication that fits the child’s age and condition. For example, aspirin should not be given to children under the age of 18. It carries a risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
Moderate to Severe Pain: Treatment Options and Recommendations
Medication Options for Moderate to Severe Pain
Medication is often the first line of treatment. Many types of drugs can ease pain. These include over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and prescription drugs. OTC pain relievers can help mild to moderate pain. These include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin. But they may not work for severe pain. Severe pain may need prescription drugs. Opioids are often prescribed for severe pain. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain and block pain signals. Opioids can work for severe pain. But they also carry risks. Long-term use can lead to dependence and addiction. There is also a risk of overdose. Patients on opioids should follow their doctor’s instructions closely. Take the medication only as directed.
Physical Therapy for Moderate to Severe Pain
Along with medication, physical therapy can also treat moderate to severe pain. Physical therapy uses exercise and other methods. It helps you move better, get stronger, bend more, and function better overall. It can help many conditions that cause moderate to severe pain. These include back pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and more. Physical therapy builds strength and flexibility in the problem areas. That can lower inflammation and take pressure off the nerves that feed chronic or acute pain.
Surgery for Severe Pain Caused by Structural Issues
Some patients have moderate to severe pain from a structural problem. Examples are herniated discs or joint damage. For them, surgery may be an option. Surgery is usually saved for cases where other treatments have failed. It is also used when a clear structural problem is causing the pain. Many types of surgery can treat severe pain from structural problems. These include spinal fusion, joint replacement, and more. A specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon, usually does these procedures.
Working with a Healthcare Professional to Determine the Best Treatment Plan
Work closely with a health care professional to find the best treatment plan. It may mix medication, physical therapy, and other treatments, based on what is causing the pain. Patients can also take steps on their own to manage pain. These may include lifestyle changes, such as better eating and exercise habits. Stress-reducing practices like meditation or yoga can help too.
Understanding and Managing Pain with Effective Treatment Plans
A complete pain management plan can help patients lower their pain and live better. Pain is common. It affects millions of people around the world. It can come from injury, illness, or chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. Pain relief may include medication, physical therapy, and other therapies such as acupuncture or massage.
Managing Pain with Medication
Medication is often the first line of treatment for pain. Many types of drugs can ease pain. They include over-the-counter (OTC) drugs like acetaminophen and ibuprofen. They also include prescription drugs like opioids and muscle relaxants. But some drugs carry side effects and risks. For example, opioids are highly addictive and can lead to dependence if not used properly. So work closely with your doctor when you take these drugs.
Physical Therapy for Pain Management
Physical therapy is another way to manage pain. It uses exercises that help you move better and bend more easily while lowering pain. Physical therapists use many methods, such as massage, stretching, and strength training. These help patients manage their pain better.
Alternative Therapies for Pain Relief
Other therapies such as acupuncture or massage can also help manage pain. They work by sparking the body’s own healing. That lowers inflammation and eases pain. Acupuncture places thin needles into specific points on the body. Massage presses on muscles and soft tissues.
Pain Management Plans for Cancer Patients
Cancer patients often need a special pain management plan. It should cover both the physical and emotional sides of their condition. Along with medication and physical therapy, cancer patients may gain from counseling or support groups. These give emotional support during a hard time.
Multidisciplinary Team Approach
A team approach to pain management is key to better results. It means working with a team of health care professionals. That team includes doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers. Each member brings their own skills. Together they build a complete pain management plan that covers every part of the patient’s condition.
Patient Education
Patient education is a key part of pain management. Patients who take an active role in their own care, and make informed choices about treatment, tend to do better. We strongly urge patients to ask questions and learn about their condition and treatment options.
Which joint injections help back, neck, hip and knee pain?
Sacroiliac Joint Injections for Low Back Pain
Sacroiliac joint injections are a common way to treat low back pain caused by inflammation in the sacroiliac joints. These joints connect the spine to the pelvis. They sit at the bottom of the lower back, near the buttocks. When these joints get inflamed, they can cause significant pain. During a sacroiliac joint injection, a provider injects a steroid medication straight into the joint. The medication lowers inflammation and eases pain in the lower back and buttocks. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia. It takes only a few minutes.
Facet Joint Injections for Chronic Neck or Back Pain
Facet joints are the tiny joints between each vertebra in the spine. When they get inflamed, they can cause lasting neck or back pain. Another joint injection that treats this pain is facet joint injections. These injections work like sacroiliac joint injections. They lower inflammation and ease pain. Like sacroiliac joint injections, facet joint injections are usually done under local anesthesia. They take only a few minutes. These injections can give short-term relief from chronic neck or back pain. But they should be used with other pain treatments as part of a complete plan.
Peripheral Joint Injections for Hip or Knee Pain
Peripheral joint injections can treat pain in other areas of the body, such as the hips or knees. During this procedure, a provider injects a steroid medication straight into the joint to lower inflammation and ease pain. These injections can give short-term relief from hip or knee pain. But they should not be relied on as a long-term solution. Work with a provider to build a plan made for you. It should cover both short-term relief and long-term care of the conditions that may be causing your pain.
Using Joint Injections as Part of a Comprehensive Pain Management Plan
Joint injections can help people with low back pain, chronic neck or back pain, or hip or knee pain caused by joint inflammation. But they should not be relied on as a long-term solution. Work with a provider to build a complete plan that treats the causes of your pain. It may include physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and other therapies along with joint injections. Treat the whole person. Cover both short-term relief and long-term care of the conditions behind the pain. That is how you get lasting relief and a better life.
Interventional Procedures for Pain Management: Facet Joint Injections and Ozone Therapy
Facet joint injections and ozone therapy are two interventional procedures that can help manage pain. They can work for some patients. But they are not always the best option. Other interventional procedures, such as nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation, may fit better. It depends on the patient’s condition and symptoms. Facet joint injections place a steroid medication into the facet joint, which sits between two vertebrae in the spine. This can lower inflammation and pain in the area. Facet joints are small joints between each pair of vertebrae in your spine. They keep your spine stable and supported while letting you move freely. In the procedure, a needle goes into the facet joint under X-ray guidance. Once the needle is in place, a mix of anesthetic and steroid medication goes into the joint space. The anesthetic eases pain right away. The steroid lowers inflammation over time. Facet joint injections are usually used for back pain caused by arthritis or injury to the facet joints themselves. They can also show whether a certain facet joint is causing your pain. Ozone therapy injects ozone gas into the problem area. That can improve blood flow and lower inflammation. It has been used for many conditions, including back pain, joint pain, and headaches. Ozone therapy works by sending more oxygen to tissues throughout your body. Ozone gas speeds up red blood cell metabolism. It improves blood flow by helping cells take up more oxygen. This treatment has been shown to work for chronic back pain from herniated discs or degenerative disc disease (DDD). Ozone therapy has also been found useful for knee osteoarthritis (OA) when combined with other therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection. Both procedures have their benefits. But they are not always the best option. Other interventional procedures, such as nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation, may fit better. It depends on the patient’s condition and symptoms. Nerve blocks inject a local anesthetic into a specific nerve or group of nerves. This stops pain signals from reaching your brain. It can give long-lasting pain relief for conditions like chronic headaches, neck pain, or back pain caused by spinal stenosis (a narrowed spinal canal). Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure. It uses heat to destroy damaged or diseased tissue in your body. It can treat chronic pain conditions like arthritis, back pain, and nerve pain. Work with a qualified provider to find the best treatment for you. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each procedure and make an informed choice. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each patient’s condition is different and needs its own plan. A qualified provider will look at your medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle when building a treatment plan. Other treatments for chronic pain go beyond facet joint injections and ozone therapy. They may include physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, or medication management. Physical therapy uses exercises that build strength and flexibility while lowering pain. Chiropractic care lines up the spine with hands-on adjustments. Acupuncture places thin needles into specific points on the body to help healing and lower inflammation. Massage therapy works the soft tissues of the body to improve blood flow and ease tension. Medication management may use prescription drugs. Examples are opioids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It may also use over-the-counter remedies like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for Pain Management: A Holistic Approach
Physical therapy is a key part of physical medicine and rehabilitation. It helps patients manage pain with exercises that build strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Physical therapists build a plan for each patient. They look at age, overall health, and the type of pain. Pain management specialists use many therapies to treat pain, including acupuncture. Acupuncture can lower pain and inflammation by sparking the body’s own healing. This ancient practice places thin needles into specific points on the body. It is meant to restore balance to the body’s energy flow. Drugs may be used along with therapy to manage pain. Pumps that deliver medication straight to the problem area are common options. So is thermal energy therapy, which uses heat to ease pain. Drugs can also be taken by mouth or put on the skin as needed. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helps patients with the emotional and mental side of pain. CBT helps patients spot negative thoughts about their pain. Then it replaces them with better ways to cope. Doctors who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation treat the whole person. They look at the patient’s overall health along with the pain itself when they build a plan. This approach knows that chronic pain reaches far beyond the body. It touches every part of a patient’s life. At the Padda Institute, we offer complete pain management. It includes physical medicine and rehabilitation and other services that help patients reach their best health. Our team includes doctors who treat chronic conditions like arthritis or back problems without surgery, using injections or nerve blocks. Along with standard treatments like medication or surgery, our providers also offer acupuncture or massage therapy for patients who want a whole-person approach. We work closely with patients to build a plan that fits their needs and goals. Physical medicine and rehabilitation works well for leg pain. Leg pain can come from many conditions, including arthritis, sciatica, or peripheral artery disease (narrowed arteries in the legs). Physical therapy can improve blood flow and lower inflammation in the legs. Behavioral therapy can help patients handle the emotional toll of chronic pain. You deserve the best pain care there is. The Padda Institute Center for Interventional Pain Management leads the field. We work hard to give our patients the latest treatments backed by evidence. Our drive for excellence has made us a leading place for pain relief in St. Louis, Missouri. When you trust us with your pain care, you get a team that will work hard to help you find lasting relief. Visit www.painmd.tv to learn more about our facility and how we can help you beat your pain.
External Links for Chronic Pain Management: NPS Medicine wise and More
When should you see a doctor about pain?
Many people have pain that lasts more than a few days despite self-care. Pain can come from injury, illness, or chronic conditions. Some pain can be handled at home. Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medicine may be enough. But sometimes you need a doctor. This section covers the warning signs and red flags that mean it’s time to call. Severe pain that gets in the way of daily life is one of the clearest signs. Pain can make even simple tasks hard, like walking or sitting. Chronic pain can also lead to depression and anxiety. That makes life even harder. Take pain seriously if it comes with fever, chills, or weight loss you cannot explain. These symptoms could point to a condition that needs treatment. For example, fever and chills may mean an infection. Weight loss you cannot explain could be a sign of cancer. Do not ignore sudden, intense pain, especially in the chest, belly, or head. Chest pain could mean a heart attack. Severe belly pain may mean appendicitis or another serious problem. A sudden, severe headache could be a sign of a stroke or bleeding in the brain. Pain from an injury or accident needs a doctor if there is swelling or the area looks out of shape. Broken bones or dislocated joints need care right away to prevent more damage and help them heal right. Finally, call the doctor if your pain lasts and does not respond to over-the-counter medicine or other treatments your provider suggested. Your doctor may recommend stronger prescription drugs. Or they may refer you to a specialist for more testing and treatment. Other signs may also mean it’s time to get help for your pain. These include:
- Pain that is interfering with sleep
- Pain that is causing anxiety or depression
- Pain that is affecting your ability to work or perform daily activities
- Pain that is impacting your relationships with others
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about pain management options. Your doctor can help you build a plan to manage your pain so you can get back to living your life. When you call, your doctor will likely ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. They may also do a physical exam or order tests like X-rays or blood work. Based on what they find, they will recommend the best treatment for your situation. Treatment depends on what is causing the pain. For acute injuries or conditions, rest and over-the-counter medicine may be enough. Chronic conditions may need stronger treatment, like prescription drugs, physical therapy, or even surgery in some cases. Everyone feels pain differently. What works for one person may not work for another. That’s why you need to work closely with your provider when you build your plan. Chronic pain can feel like a wall you cannot climb. But with the Padda Institute Center for Interventional Pain Management on your side, you can get past it. Our team of experts gives complete, advanced care that goes after the root cause of your pain. We use the latest medical research and technology. Our treatments are aimed at helping you move again, function again, and feel well again. Patients in the St. Louis, Missouri area have found new hope and freedom from pain through our interventional pain care. Start your path to a pain-free life today by visiting www.painmd.tv.
Conclusion: Pain Management Strategies and Best Practices
Pain management is a complex field. It takes a team. Doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and pain management teams work together to build plans that work for patients with acute or chronic pain. Different types of pain need different methods and procedures. Pain in one spot can be treated with over-the-counter medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Chronic pain may need more specialized treatments like nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation. Follow best practices when you take medication for chronic pain. That keeps side effects and risks low. Always talk to your doctor before you start a new medication or change the dose of one you already take. Antidepressants, antiepileptic drugs, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common pain drugs. They work by blocking pain signals in the brain or by lowering inflammation in the problem area. For mild to moderate pain, options include physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. These therapies can lower pain without relying on drugs. Moderate to severe pain may need stronger treatment. Examples are opioid therapy or procedures like facet joint injections or ozone therapy. These procedures inject medication straight into the problem area to calm inflammation and ease pain. Physical medicine and rehabilitation treats the whole person. It goes after the causes of the condition, not just the symptoms. It includes exercise programs, lifestyle changes, stress reduction, nutrition counseling, and other therapies. Patients should know the warning signs and red flags that mean they need care right away. These include sudden severe pain, fever with a stiff back or neck, loss of bowel or bladder control, weakness in the arms or legs, and chest pain with shortness of breath, among others. Don’t let chronic pain hold you back from living your best life. At the Padda Institute Center for Interventional Pain Management, we believe everyone deserves a shot at a life without pain. Dr. Padda leads our team. He brings over 20 years of clinical and research experience. Our team gives complete, advanced care that goes after the root cause of your pain. Our interventional pain treatments are built around your needs, so you get the strongest and most lasting relief possible. We have helped countless patients in the St. Louis, Missouri area hurt less and take back control of their lives. Don’t wait another moment to see what our expertise can do – visit www.painmd.tv and take the first step toward a better, pain-free future.
Frequently asked questions
What does comprehensive pain management mean?
It means finding the underlying cause of your pain before treating it. At the Padda Institute, advanced diagnostic tools come first. Then a team of doctors, nurses and therapists builds a plan just for you. It can combine medication, physical therapy, mindfulness, hypnosis and nerve stimulation. The plan is matched to the type and severity of your pain and to your medical history.
What is the best pain medication for chronic pain?
There is no single best one. The right choice depends on the type of pain. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, and acetaminophen, are used for mild to moderate pain. Nerve pain often calls for antidepressants such as duloxetine or antiepileptic drugs such as gabapentin and pregabalin. Opioids carry a high risk of addiction and overdose. That makes them a poor fit for long-term use.
What should you tell your pain management doctor?
Tell your doctor everything. Describe how much pain you are in, any side effects from your treatment and any change in your condition. List every other medication you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, because some drugs interact with each other and raise the risk of side effects. Your doctor uses all of this to adjust the drug or the dose.
What happens at a first visit with a pain doctor?
Expect questions about your symptoms and your medical history. The doctor may do a physical exam and order tests such as X-rays or blood work. Based on what those show, the doctor recommends a treatment plan for you. That is because treatment depends on the cause of the pain. What works for one person may not work for another.
Dr. Gurpreet Singh Padda, MD, MBA, MHP
