Is your back acting up lately? Back pain is common and affects a person’s quality of life. In fact, it is the primary cause of work limitations all over the world. Around 50-80% of individuals experience at least one episode of back pain in their lifetime.
It may only involve specific locations such as the lower back, neck area, and the upper back. Some experience pain in the entire back. Most cases resolve quickly without treatment. At some point, you’ll start to wonder if you’ll continue resorting to home remedies or it’s already time to consult a back pain doctor.
What Can Cause Back Pain?
Several things can cause back pain, from a strenuous workout to kidney stones. Other common reasons include:
- An injured disk (acts like a cushion between the bones of the spine)
- Strained muscle or injured muscle
- Broken bone due to osteoporosis
- Arthritis
- Scoliosis
- Sciatica
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Sacroiliitis
- Long periods of standing or sitting (usually seen in office employees)
Things to Consider When Deciding to Consult a Back Pain Doctor
Severity and duration of back pain
Most cases are acute, meaning the pain disappears after a few weeks. If the pain is intense or doesn’t improve after two weeks, it’s time to consult a back pain doctor. Take note if you also feel the following symptoms:
- Pain is intense or constant, especially in the evening or when lying down
- The pain spreads down to one side or both legs or if it extends below the knee
Other symptoms that come with the pain
Additional symptoms may accompany the pain, which may indicate an underlying issue that needs to be checked further.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness is felt in one or both legs
- Loss of sensation, tingling, or numbness in an arm that wasn’t present before
- Having a hard time in passing or controlling passing stool
- Redness or swelling on the back
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Eye issues such as pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity
Physical trauma
Seek emergency medical care if your pain starts after an accident or a physical event. You will be prone to malalignment or fractures, especially as you get older. The doctor will conduct a comprehensive exam to assess the pain and any injuries that may contribute to it.
No improvement is seen with the current treatment
Contact your doctor again if your current treatment plan doesn’t improve after three months. They may change the current plan or add another medication. Otherwise, they will refer you to a specialist, such as a back pain doctor for further examination and treatment.
Your primary care doctor will initially prescribe over-the-counter painkillers like NSAIDs or a heating pad. If your condition is serious or complicated, a back pain doctor may recommend advanced treatment options:
- Physiotherapy
- Osteopathic or chiropractic treatment
- Therapeutic injection
- Steroid injections that are administered with X-ray guidance and the patient is under sedation
- Surgical intervention
- Radiofrequency ablation to resolve pain coming from arthritic spinal joints
Surgical intervention will only be considered if the pain is chronic an unmanageable, and all other options have failed. The only exception would be if the case is a medical emergency.
A condition in which this exception is applicable is Cauda equina syndrome. It’s a condition caused by compression of the spinal nerve roots. If not treated, this may result in leg paralysis, incontinence, and loss of sensation of the sexual organs. This kind of back pain needs immediate medical care and can be classified as a medical emergency.
Things to Expect on Your First Appointment With a Back Pain Doctor
The doctor will get your medical history. They will ask questions about the intensity of the pain you feel. They will also check on how easy it is for you to stand, sit, or move around. This will help them determine where the pain is coming from. It’s also important to check what worsens the pain and if anything helps alleviate it.
Other tests may also be required, such as:
- CT or MRI Scans to identify problems in bones, tissue, disks, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels
- Xray to identify broken bones or arthritis
- Electromyography (EMG) to see how the muscles react to electric impulses from the nerves.
- Blood tests to check for infection
- Bone scan to find breaks or tumors due to osteoporosis
The Pain Treatment Institute Has Topnotch Back Pain Doctors in Texas
Back pain can hinder you from doing your daily activities. It can also become debilitating. In most cases, it resolves on its own. If your back pain seems to be worsening or not improving, it’s highly imperative to consult a back pain doctor.
The Pain Treatment Institute has extensive experience treating back pain. We use the best pain management care for our patients. If you are near one of our clinics in McKinney, Mesquite, Frisco, Plano, Rockwall, or Sherman, book an appointment with us today.
Neck pain is a condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the neck area. A number of things, such as degenerative diseases, bad posture, muscle strain, and herniated discs, can cause it. It can range in severity from minor to severe.
Neck pain is a common problem that affects a large percentage of people. According to studies, between 30 and 50 percent of adults in the general population suffer from neck pain annually.
Because of its prevalence, neck pain cure-alls are a dime a dozen. However, you must seek certified neck pain experts for treatments instead of using DIY hacks. Seeking help from neck pain professionals eliminates the risk of things going wrong when easing your neck pain.
It’s critical to take into account a few things when choosing a neck pain expert.
3 Types of Professionals Who Could Help With Neck Pain
When suffering from neck pain, you have to choose the correct healthcare professional to suit your situation. It is also crucial that you choose the right type of professional with the correct qualifications to prevent further harm:
They can identify and address any underlying medical issues that may be causing your neck pain and prescribe medicines.
They focus on reducing tension and improving circulation in the affected region via massage techniques.
Physical therapists focus on musculoskeletal issues and aim to ease pain and discomfort by utilizing exercises and manual therapy.
What Qualifications Does a Neck Pain Expert Need?
One cannot overstate the importance of selecting an expert who is both licensed and insured.
A license guarantees that the professional has completed the required coursework and training for said profession. Plus, insurance offers security against unexpected issues or malpractice lawsuits.
When you choose a licensed and insured neck pain specialist, you may feel more secure and comfortable knowing that your chosen expert spent years in study and practice as all pain management specialists do.
Why Should You Pick an Experienced Neck Pain Expert?
The experience a pain management professional has is quite important when choosing one to treat neck pain. An experienced practitioner is probably familiar with many kinds of cases, which means they can:
- Accurately diagnose neck issues.
More experienced professionals can identify the root of neck pain, even if the symptoms are complex. This is because their experience allows them to see a number of cases that may not be typical.
- Craft effective treatment plans.
Due to their experience, they can also provide treatment plans tailored to each patient, no matter how complex the issue is.
When evaluating a professional’s experience, take into account the following things:
- Certifications, licenses, and specializations.
- The number of patients successfully treated.
- Testimonials and reviews from patients.
- Length of time in the profession.
What Neck Pain Treatments Should You Look For?
There are many ways to manage neck pain, including:
- Exercises under supervision
Certain neck exercise regimens can help alleviate pain, strengthen the muscles in the neck, and enhance one’s posture.
Massages, physical manipulation, and mobilization can help release tight neck muscles and increase the range of motion in the area.
Neck pain and inflammation can be managed with painkillers (prescription or OTC), anti-inflammatory medication, or muscle relaxants.
In extreme situations, some conditions may require surgical intervention to be addressed. Spinal stenosis, herniated discs, injuries, and more are some of the few neck issues that require surgical procedures.
Why Choose a Neck Pain Expert?
Trained specialists can easily identify the root cause of your neck pain. This can help you receive the appropriate treatment, making the healing process more effective for you. They can personalize your treatment plan in a way that incorporates your wants and needs.
An effective treatment plan can help improve your quality of life by easing your pain and discomfort. It can get rid of not just the symptoms but the cause itself. Whether they reduce muscle tension or improve joint mobility, an expert could help you relieve discomfort well.
Selecting a trained and skilled neck pain specialist shows how involved you are in your own treatment. A qualified neck pain specialist can offer customized care plans, individualized therapy, and regular assistance. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Get yourself started on the path to a life free of neck pain.
Contact a Neck Pain Expert Now at the Pain Treatment Institute.
Neck pain specialists assist people with persistent neck pain improve their overall well-being by relieving their discomfort.
It is recommended that you consult with a specialist as soon as possible if you experience pain around your neck. Such specialists play a crucial role in helping their patients live better, neck pain-free lives.
Get help from our skilled neck pain specialists by getting in touch with the Pain Treatment Institute today! Make an appointment with us and tell us how we can help you deal with your neck pain.
Are you experiencing the horrible effects of joint pain? You know how hard it is to go about your daily tasks like household chores or exercise. With so many health professionals and specializations available, deciding who to consult about your problem is complex. In this article, we’ll explain the different between a joint pain specialist and other specialists.
When Should You Consult a Joint Pain Specialist?
Most people consult their primary care physician for their initial diagnosis. They would then receive a referral to a joint pain specialist for a closer examination.
The doctors specializing in joint pain are orthopedic surgeons and rheumatologists.
Consult a rheumatologist for joint pain if:
- You feel pain in several joints.
- The pain felt isn’t connected to an injury.
- You also have psoriasis.
- Your joint pain is accompanied by morning stiffness, chest pain, fatigue, fever, or rash.
- The pain felt started after a tick bite.
Consult an orthopedic surgeon if:
- Your joint pain began after an injury.
- You feel severe joint pain that affects your daily activities.
- You have arthritis that is moderate or advanced in stage.
- Your current treatment plan for joint pain is not working.
How Do Rheumatologists and Orthopedists Differ in Managing Pain?
Although both doctors treat the same areas, they differ in how they manage your pain.
Rheumatologists examine the whole body when searching for the cause of your pain. An orthopedist concentrates on congenital disease, injuries, and degenerative conditions.
In terms of treatment, orthopedists perform surgery, but rheumatologists do not.
Rheumatologists specialize in non-surgical treatment of arthritis. A range of medications is prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. They also undergo special training for treating musculoskeletal conditions due to inflammation or autoimmune disease.
Training Needed to Become a Joint Pain Specialist
A rheumatologist’s training begins with a bachelor’s degree. He then goes to medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree. He may also opt to earn a Doctor of Osteopathy degree or DO. Osteopathic doctors have a holistic approach that also looks at the patient’s mind, body, and spirit.
After medical school, a three-year residency focusing on internal medicine must be completed. Doctors must successfully pass the internal medicine board exam to subspecialize.
Before becoming a doctor, a rheumatologist must complete a 2-to-3-year fellowship. This is a subspecialty training that focuses on musculoskeletal and inflammatory/autoimmune diseases.
Rheumatologists take a comprehensive exam to become board certified. They also take a recertification exam every ten years and need to undergo continuing medical education to maintain their board certification.
What to Expect During Your Visit to a Joint Pain Specialist
Your initial visit involves the collection of medical and family history, physical examination, and running specific tests. Make sure to prepare to help your doctor diagnose your condition adequately. Be ready with the following:
- List of symptoms that made you consult a joint pain specialist
- Past imaging test results
- Past blood work results
- Complete list of medications you’re currently taking. This includes any vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications like analgesics.
- Medical history, such as allergies
- Family medical history – especially known cases of rheumatic diseases.
After the initial exam, additional testing might be ordered to investigate your condition further. The rheumatologist would also want to test for high antibodies to confirm autoimmune disorders.
Musculoskeletal problems are diagnosed using one of the following imaging tests:
- X-ray
- CT scan
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
The data collected will help develop an appropriate treatment plan. The doctor will also discuss with you regarding:
- Coping mechanism for having a condition like rheumatoid arthritis
- Steps to regaining function or preventing disability
- How to improve quality of life
- How to prevent disease progression
You and Your Doctor Will Be Working Together for a Long Time
Other specialists will only see you for only when the need arises. They may also send you again to your primary care physician for follow-up care. This is not true for rheumatologists. In fact, they may become your doctor for life.
After they have confirmed the correct diagnosis, lab work ensures you take the right medication. They will also see you regularly, approximately every 2 to 3 months. You will normally see them more than your primary care physician. They may even become your primary care doctor.
Meet the Best Joint Pain Specialists at Pain Treatment Institute.
When it comes to dealing with pain, every second counts. The earlier you get your disease diagnosed, the sooner you can be freed from physical suffering. The Pain Treatment Institute has top-notch health professionals in Texas. Book an appointment with us today to take a step towards a better quality of life.
Pain is an unpleasant feeling or physical suffering caused by bodily harm or tissue damage. It can be classified into two different types: acute and chronic. Acute pain is a sharp, sudden, and stinging pain, while chronic pain is dull and lasts for longer periods over months. Unfortunately, pain is something we encounter at least once in our lives.
Suffering from pain can greatly impact one’s movements, which can hamper their quality of life. With the presence of pain, chronic or otherwise, movement can be limited and independence lessened.
Luckily, there are professionals trained to help patients deal with pain.
What are Pain Management Physicians?
A pain management physician is a medical professional who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of pain. They help people regain their quality of life by alleviating the chronic pain that they feel by treating them with various methods.
They Can Help Evaluate and Diagnose the Cause of Pain.
Before a pain management physician can treat a patient, they must evaluate and diagnose the root cause of the pain first. To do this, they must look into a patient’s medical history and examine them thoroughly via physical assessment or imaging tests.
They have to find the underlying cause of pain to truly ease it. A diagnosis allows the physician to figure out and treat the source of pain, not just its symptoms. Having a clear diagnosis allows them to create a treatment plan fully tailored to the specific issue.
Without a proper diagnosis, pain prevention measures can be taken but will not cease its recurrence completely.
Pain Management Physicians Can Treat the Cause of Pain and Help in Managing Pain Symptoms.
After determining the cause of pain, a pain management physician can begin personalizing a treatment plan for their patient. These treatment plans may involve medications, nerve blockers, and physical therapy, depending on the cause of pain.
Pain management treatments vary wildly between patients. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when managing pain. If anyone tries to give you such an offer, it is best to be wary and steer clear of them.
Pain management specialists employ a range of methods in their treatment plans. These include medication, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and pain psychology. Some specific treatments include:
- Cortisone shots
- Epidural steroid injections
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Sacroiliac joint injection
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Trigger point injections
Common Conditions Treated by a Pain Management Physician
There are a lot of physical injuries and ailments that can cause pain and discomfort to individuals. Because of that, pain doctors typically treat a wide range of issues that people commonly suffer from. These can include issues that cause both chronic and acute pain.
Here are a few common causes of pain typically dealt with by a pain management physician:
Arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Gout
- Juvenile arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Mixed pain disorders
Nerve injuries
- Sciatica
- Central pain syndrome
- Chronic postoperative pain
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
Soft tissue injuries
- Sports injuries
- Contusions
- Sprains
- Strains
- Tendinitis
Spinal conditions
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated discs
- Scoliosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Osteoarthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
Other conditions
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Sudden pain
- Muscle weakness
- Fibromyalgia
- Cancer pain
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Pain Management Physician?
Aside from pain relief, there are many more pros in getting treated by a knowledgeable pain doctor. Here are some examples of possible benefits you can enjoy by getting treated by a pain management specialist:
- Your quality of life will improve.
When a pain doctor helps remove the cause of pain, the symptoms typically follow suit. Treatment typically reduces pain and suffering, improving a person’s function and mobility. This leads to a better mental state and more independence, and a better quality of life.
- Your healthcare costs will not be as high.
Pain doctors analyze your issue in depth, leading to more accurate diagnoses. This prevents you from going through unnecessary procedures that can set you back thousands of dollars.
If a pain doctor diagnoses and treats you early on, you can save a lot of money by preventing further issues that can cost more.
- Care is personalized and highly in-depth, depending on your situation.
A pain management doctor will tailor a treatment plan specifically for you and your condition. This plan will focus not only on the methods of relieving pain but also on your needs, wants, and general preferences in treatment.
Get in Touch with a Pain Doctor Today at the Pain Treatment Institute.
By providing pain relief, pain management professionals help promote the general well-being of those suffering from chronic pain.
If you suffer from chronic pain or other types of pain, it is best that you get in touch with a professional today. They are essential in assisting their patients in getting a better quality of life despite their pain.
Contact the Pain Treatment Institute today to get our experienced pain management doctors to assist you. Our team is committed to providing you with only the best personalized professional pain management care possible. Schedule an appointment with us today, and let us know how we can further assist you.
Chronic pain affects the lives of millions of adults in the country. In 2021, approximately 20% have this debilitating condition. Dealing with this burden can be emotionally and physically taxing. It has a great impact on our quality of life. It affects our capacity to work, enjoy the things we love, and be with our loved ones.
It’s important to find chronic pain clinics near me that know your needs and provide effective solutions. With the numerous chronic pain clinics in Texas, how do you find the right one? Read on to know more.
How Chronic Pain Clinics Near Me Can Help
Chronic pain clinics are medical facilities that diagnose, treat, and provide continuous management of chronic pain. They use a multidisciplinary approach where a group of health professionals address pain from different perspectives.
Where to Gather Information
Doing thorough research on your potential pain clinic is important so that you receive care that truly matches your needs. Here are some tried and tested methods you can try:
Information about chronic pain clinics in Texas is readily available on the internet. Check their websites to learn more about their services, treatment options, and patient testimonials. Watch out for any red flags. The doctor must have undergone special training and be board-certified in treating pain.
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Get referrals from trusted individuals.
Talk to your primary care physician or trusted family and friends. Your primary care physician may already have worked with a colleague specializing in pain management. He can also help endorse you to the doctor since he already knows your medical history.
Your family may also know chronic pain clinics near you or have already used their services. They can give helpful insight into your decision-making process.
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Join a local pain support group.
The best advice comes from those who have experienced the same condition you have. Several organizations form support groups for those suffering from chronic pain.
An example is the American Chronic Pain Association. In addition to providing information about pain management, the association has an online locator to help you users find local support groups.
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Check the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC).
The CAPC is committed to improving the availability and quality of healthcare for those living with serious illness. Its online directory of providers can help you locate a chronic pain clinic near your residence.
You will be working with your chosen clinic for the years to come. If possible, book an initial appointment with the top 3 clinics on your list. Take note of how they communicate and your overall patient experience during the visit. Note how well they respond to your concerns.
Indeed, research and great recommendations play a big role in choosing chronic pain clinics near you. However, always trust your gut when making the final decision. Consider how you feel about each clinic and choose the one with the most assurance and trust.
Information to Note When Searching for Chronic Pain Clinics Near Me
Make sure to take note of the following information when doing your research:
The pain clinic should specialize in the treatment plan or pain area you need. Some clinics provide a more holistic treatment plan, while some focus on specific injuries only.
- What is the clinic’s treatment plan?
Each treatment plan is unique. You must choose the one that is most in line with your values. Some use narcotics, while others prefer to use natural remedies. Inquire about the short- and long-term effects of each treatment plan.
The clinic’s culture is a big factor in determining whether it fits you well. How many doctors and staff are part of the team? How does the clinic ensure that the patients feel at ease and taken care of? These small details go a long way and will have a big impact on your well-being.
- Billing and insurance coverage
Check if the clinic accepts your insurance plan or if they assist with insurance claims. Ask about any co-pays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses you need to pay for.
Managing chronic pain will require follow-up visits and ongoing care. Ask the clinic’s process for follow-ups. Is there a team you can contact for any concerns that may arise?
Receive Top-Tier Pain Management in Texas
Partnering with the right pain clinic is a huge step towards ending your suffering from chronic pain. Exhaust all methods possible to make an informed decision.
If you’re looking for top-tier pain management in Texas, you’ve come to the right place. Book an appointment with Pain Treatment Institute today. We have six clinics conveniently located in Sherman, Mesquite, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and Rockwall. Contact us today, and let’s discuss how we can improve your quality of life.
If you’re suffering from chronic pain, chances are, your debilitating pain is interfering all aspects of your life. Because of this pain, you might have looked for “pain treatment doctors near me” over the internet. You’re on the right track. Finding the right pain treatment doctor is crucial in alleviating your pain.
According to the American Association of Anesthesiologists, there are many types of pain. For pain management to work, it is best to understand the type of pain you have. Then, work with a doctor who specializes in pain management and treatment.
What Is a Pain Treatment Doctor?
Pain treatment doctors are also called pain management physicians. They specialize in evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of pain. They have advanced training in the management of pain and devote their time and expertise to help patients experiencing lingering pain.
Their specialized training allows them to help their patients find relief from their pain. Management of pain may also involve a team of doctors and specialists. The team may include pain management physicians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other specialists focusing on specific conditions.
Top Tips to Finding the Right Pain Treatment Doctors Near Me
If you search for “pain treatment doctors near me,” it will definitely yield thousands of results. You do not want that. What you want is to find the right doctor who can address your pain and provide you the relief you are looking for. How would you know which doctor to choose? How would you narrow down your search? Here are some tips that could help.
Tip no. 1: Ask your primary care physician.
Indeed, the internet is the most convenient and easiest way to find anything and everything. But if you want to find the right doctor for you, one of the first persons to ask is your primary care doctor.
Usually, your physician also knows a colleague who specializes in pain management. This will be a good starting point for finding the right pain treatment doctor for you. Furthermore, your physician knows your medical history and medications. Your primary care doctor also knows you personally and is aware of your preferences. Thus, they can recommend a colleague who can properly address your concerns.
Tip no. 2: Seek referrals.
Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and other trusted healthcare professionals. The people who have first-hand experience in pain treatment can give you their personal experiences regarding the pain treatment doctors who checked them.
You can also find information from pain support groups. If you don’t know anyone who is going through what you’re experiencing right now, look for pain support groups for possible recommendations. You can learn so much from these communities through the experiences and perspectives of those who are in pain management therapy. More importantly, their members can direct you to the right pain treatment doctor who can address your debilitating pain.
Tip no. 3: Narrow down your search based on the recommendations that you have.
When narrowing down your list, check the credentials of these doctors. Find out their board certification, training, expertise, and specific pain conditions that they treat. Ask about their experience in pain management and track record in addressing the concerns of patients with similar pain as yours.
Ask questions such as: How many years of experience in pain management this particular doctor have? How many patients does this doctor have? Are these patients satisfied with their course of treatment?
The right pain treatment doctor usually has a track record of success in pain management treatment.
Tip no. 4. Visit the pain treatment doctors’ clinic and schedule a consultation.
Physiotherapist giving back massage to a patient in clinic
Conduct research on the treatment plans of the doctors on your list. Here are some of the things to ask when you visit the clinic:
- Medication
- Intervention procedures
- Duration of treatment
- Physical therapy
- Approaches to manage pain
- Alternative medicine
Assess the clinic and the doctor. Assess also your feelings when you are in the clinic. You should be comfortable with your doctor and with their team to make your pain management treatment a success. Your doctor should also be able to address your concerns and explain in detail the things that you want to know.
Through these tips, you should be able to find the right pain management doctors near you.
Pain Treatment Doctors Near Me – Have Yourself Assessed Today.
You do not have to suffer from chronic pain throughout your lifetime. You can find relief from your pain, but you have to find the right pain management doctor near you.
To know more about how you can alleviate your pain, contact the Pain Treatment Institute today. We provide state-of-the-art pain management care for our patients who may be suffering from debilitating pain. We have six clinics conveniently located in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Rockwall, Sherman, and Mesquite.
Contact us now, and let us help you ease the pain that you are experiencing.
