#painmanagementdoctor Archives - OSSC Outpatient Surgical Specialties Center

Signs You Need Professional Pain Management

Pain can be felt in various parts of the body and stem from different sources, such as injuries and medical conditions. While some people only experience painful symptoms for a given amount of time, others may suffer from them for much longer.

When pain is not managed effectively, it can cause further discomfort and worsen any existing illnesses, leading to reduced quality of life. Because of this, it’s essential to determine when to seek help from a pain management doctor. Read on to learn about some helpful warning signs.

You Experience Chronic Pain

Pain should typically subside with time, whether it’s from injuries, surgical procedures, or other minor conditions. But when mild discomfort that becomes intense or already severe pain doesn’t completely go away for months, it should be a cause for concern.

Your Pain Begins to Spread to Other Areas

Another sign to watch out for is when the pain starts spreading to other parts of your body. This could indicate that your condition is worsening or that it needs more advanced treatment. When this occurs, early intervention from a professional is crucial to enable more effective pain management.

Over-the-Counter Medications Are Ineffective

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are a common remedy for headaches, back pain, minor injuries, and other bodily discomfort. They help reduce painful symptoms and offer temporary relief.

When these medications become ineffective, it may indicate that you need a different or stronger prescription or even an alternative treatment, like physical therapy. Consulting a physician will help you determine the best pain management method for your needs.

Your Pain Affects Your Quality of Life

While it’s possible to make lifestyle modifications to manage pain, it becomes a different story when these symptoms cause significant negative impacts on your life. This includes failing to do your daily routines, canceling weekend plans, experiencing limited range of motion, and having trouble sleeping due to pain.

Instead of letting these symptoms continue impacting your quality of life, seek medical attention. Pain management physicians can diagnose your condition and recommend the best way to manage discomfort and restore normal bodily functions.

Seek Help From a Trusted Pain Management Doctor

With these signs, you can better assess whether it’s time for professional pain management. Outpatient Surgical Specialties Center has reliable and experienced physicians who can help. Contact us for more information about our healthcare services in Omaha, NE.

Understanding the Role of Pain Management Doctors

A pain management doctor plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life of individuals suffering from chronic or acute pain. These specialized healthcare professionals have the expertise and knowledge to evaluate, diagnose, and provide comprehensive treatment options to address various types of pain. Here’s what you need to know:

What Types of Pain Do They Treat?

There are different types of pain, with some requiring more extensive treatments than others. A pain specialist can treat the four major types, which include:

Acute PainThis develops rapidly over a short period and is often the result of trauma, dental work, infections, or strains. While acute pain typically resolves within days to months, it may worsen if left untreated. So, it’s essential to seek help from a specialist immediately.
Chronic PainChronic pain can last for several months, negatively affecting a person’s quality of life. It usually results from medical conditions, such as diabetes and circulation problems. A pain physician may prescribe medications or recommend physical therapy to treat this condition.
Neuropathic PainThis type of pain is caused by nerve damage and can be associated with conditions like cancer or post-surgery complications. Symptoms of neuropathic pain may include a stabbing or burning sensation, numbness, and shooting or sharp discomfort in the affected area.
Nociceptive PainYou may experience nociceptive pain if you have tissue damage, or conditions such as burns, fractures, or arthritis. Managing this type of pain may involve physical therapy and over-the-counter or prescription medications.

What Type of Treatments Do They Do?

Pain management doctors employ various approaches to help individuals manage their symptoms effectively, including working with other specialists to ensure an ideal treatment plan. Here are some of their treatment approaches:

Medical ManagementThis includes the use of prescription medications such as opioids, steroids, or antidepressants. As pain doctors are knowledgeable about the use of opioids, they can provide guidance on dosage and timing to minimize side effects and the risks of misuse.
Behavioral TherapyBehavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can complement pain medication and other treatments. CBT helps individuals understand how their thoughts and behaviors affect their pain perception, enabling them to develop effective coping strategies.
Physical TherapyAnother common pain management treatment is physical therapy. This aims to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility, reducing the need for excessive pain medication or surgical interventions.

Consult Our Physicians at the Outpatient Surgical Specialties Center

Now that you know about what a pain management doctor does, you can better understand when to reach out to them should you experience a specific type of pain. Contact the Outpatient Surgical Specialties Center if you’re looking for an outpatient center with reliable medical care in Omaha, NE.

Rebecca Spaulding 2 year ago

I first visited this place last week to get the fluid drained off of my lungs by Dr. Braun .This week I had a dye test on my port only to find out it was not working properly. ( Done somewhere else, NOT at OSSC) Dr. Braun was so calming and explained in detail why I should replace it. Today he did just that. I can not brag enough how awesome this place is!! The staff is SO caring, warm and friendly. Dr. Braun is the best!! I have not had the best start with my journey with cancer, but being able to have a place like this to go to when needed is definitely making it a little easier. I highly recommend this place!!

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