More than 1.5 billion people worldwide, and at least 100 million Americans live with chronic pain.
The majority of the Americans with it say it’s tough for them to concentrate during the day and sleep well at night. They also claim that it affects their enjoyment of life and their energy levels.
If pain is a regular part of your life, a pain relief clinic may be able to assist you.
What is a Pain Clinic?
Also referred to as a pain management clinic, they are healthcare facilities that concentrate on the management and diagnosis of chronic pain. There are two types. One, often known as an interdisciplinary clinic, takes an approach that views the whole person. The other concentrates on procedures to tackle specific types of pain, like back and neck pain.
Usually, your team may comprise:
- Dieticians and nutritionists
- Doctors and nurses
- Physical therapists
- Psychologists
- Vocational and occupational therapists
Besides the medications, these clinics may assist you in managing pain with psychological, behavioral, and physical therapies.
They may also offer alternative or complementary medicine, coach you on lifestyle changes, and teach you about your pain. These may consist of:
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Massage
- Meditation
- Water therapy
What is the Goal?
It is to raise your quality of life and cut your pain. By getting treatment at a pain clinic, you may be given the skills to manage your chronic pain on your own, making you more able to function, so that you may return to work.
Do they Work?
Numerous studies claim that folks having detailed pain management have less emotional distress and pain. According to the research, they may also make their daily tasks easier.
How Do I Find a Pain Clinic
Ask your primary care specialist or a doctor for a referral; you can also:
- Call your local medical center or hospital.
- Get assistance from a local pain support group.
- Search the CAPC (or Center to Advance Palliative Care) for a list of providers in every state.
What Should I Search For?
Search for a clinic with a specialist who is aware of the kind of pain you’re going through. Ask if the doctor is board certified in pain management and has had special training.
As with other doctors, find someone you’re comfortable with. Your pain management expert will coordinate other care and treat your pain, including counseling, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.
A good pain program will work in collaboration with you and your family to formulate a plan based on your goals. It will tell you how you’re doing by monitoring your progress.
What Else Should I Ask?
Be sure to ask what type of treatments and therapies a clinic offers. You may also see if they organize support groups.
Ask if you can talk to other people who have had treatment there.
What Should I Avoid?
You shouldn’t go near the clinics that mostly provide narcotics as a form of treating pain. These medications may be quite addictive. They may also interact with other things you take.
A pain clinic should concentrate on the person, not just the pain.
In Utah and looking for pain specialists? Contact Peak Health & Wellness; we’ve got you covered.