Pain Management Doctors – When to See One

Chronic pain is more than an inconvenience – it can interfere with daily activities, relationships and overall well-being. For individuals experiencing persistent or debilitating pain, seeing a pain management doctor can be a game-changer. But when is it time to seek one out? This article will help clarify what pain management doctors do, the conditions they treat and when it is appropriate to consider their specialized care.

What Is a Pain Management Doctor?

A pain management doctor specializes in diagnosing, treating and preventing chronic pain. Unlike general practitioners, they are trained to assess the complexities of pain and create personalized treatment plans tailored to the root cause and the patient’s lifestyle. These specialists often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with physical therapists, psychologists and other health care providers to address pain from multiple angles.

“As a pain management physician, my role is to be a detective, advocate and guide—uncovering the root cause of pain, tailoring treatments to the individual and supporting patients on their journey to relief and recovery,” Brent D. Bevard, DO, with Hattiesburg Clinic Pain Management Health Center, said.

What Does a Pain Management Doctor Treat?

Pain management doctors treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Chronic back pain caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis or injuries
  • Neuropathic pain, such as diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia
  • Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia, a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain
  • Cancer-related pain resulting from the disease or its treatments
  • Post-surgical pain that persists after surgery or medical procedures

“Chronic pain is more than just a physical issue—it affects your emotional, mental and social well-being as well. Our goal is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms,” Jonathan H.S. Rayburn, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic Pain Management Health Center, shared.

When Should You See a Pain Management Doctor?

If pain has become a constant part of your life and is making it difficult to do the things you enjoy or need to do, it may be time to seek professional help. While each patient is unique, these are the most common reasons to schedule an appointment with a pain management doctor:

  • When Pain Lasts Beyond Expected Healing Time
    If you have sustained an injury or undergone surgery and the pain persists for months, it is time to consult a specialist. Pain that does not improve as expected might indicate a more complex underlying issue.
  • When Pain Affects Your Daily Life
    If pain disrupts your ability to work, exercise or perform everyday activities, it is a sign to seek professional help. Pain management doctors can recommend treatments that improve function and quality of life.
  • When Standard Treatments are Not Helping
    When over-the-counter medications, physical therapy or other treatments fail to provide relief, a pain management doctor can offer advanced options like nerve blocks, injections or spinal cord stimulation.
  • When You are Concerned About Long-Term Medication Use
    Chronic pain often leads to reliance on medications, including opioids, which carry the risk of addiction. Pain management doctors focus on non-opioid treatments and interventions to reduce dependency.
  • When You are Diagnosed with a Chronic Pain Condition
    Certain conditions, like fibromyalgia or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), require ongoing and specialized care. A pain management doctor can create a comprehensive plan tailored to your diagnosis.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your first appointment with a pain management doctor will likely involve a thorough evaluation. Be prepared to discuss:

  • Your pain history: When it started, its intensity and what triggers or alleviates it
  • Previous treatments: Medications, therapies or surgeries you have tried
  • Medical history: Chronic conditions, surgeries or injuries that could contribute to your pain

After the evaluation, your doctor may recommend imaging tests or specific procedures to better understand your condition. From there, they will create a personalized treatment plan, which might include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Injections or nerve blocks
  • Medications
  • Alternative therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic/osteopathic care
  • Surgical consultations if necessary

“Sometimes, the path to pain relief involves a combination of therapies. We explore all possibilities to ensure the best outcome for you,” Dr. Bevard explained.

Pain Management at Hattiesburg Clinic

With a skilled team of board-certified doctors fellowship-trained in pain management and anesthesia, Hattiesburg Clinic is proud to have one of the most rigorous pain management programs in Mississippi.

“Pain can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. By working together, we can create a plan that empowers you to reclaim control over your life,” Dr. Rayburn said.

If you are experiencing chronic pain, contact the pain specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic to explore your options and find the relief you deserve.

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