Pain Clinic - Frequently Asked Questions

Can pain management doctors find out why I hurt?

Pain management doctors are experts at diagnosing why you are having pain as well as treating the pain itself.  We are able to search for hidden pain, but tests are not always conclusive.  Sometimes even though the cause of the pain cannot be determined, your pain can be effectively managed.

Who are pain management doctors?

Doctors who manage pain are frequently anesthesiologists, medical doctors who make sure that you are safe, pain-free and comfortable during and following surgery as well as during other procedures.  This experience has led anesthesiologists to develop newer, more effective treatments for patients who have pain unrelated to surgery.  Many techniques used to make surgery and childbirth virtually painless are now being used to relieve other types of pain.

Who makes up a pain management team?

Frequently an anesthesiologist heads a team of other specialists and doctors who work together to help you manage your pain.  This team could also include neurologists, oncologists, orthopedists, physiatrists and psychiatrists in addition to non-physician specialists such as nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical or rehabilitation therapists and psychologists. 

When would I need to see a pain management doctor?
People develop pain for many reasons.  Pain from a recent surgery, injury or illness is called acute pain.  In many cases, this pain can be managed immediately and will usually get better in just a short time.  If your pain persists after the healing process should be over, you might need intervention for your chronic pain.  Your physician may also refer you to our clinic if the current treatment you are receiving stops working or your pain begins to worsen over time.