What is the difference from acute and chronic
pain?
Acute pain is a pain of limited duration and will
go away. Chronic pain is debilitating, continues for extended periods
of time and is difficult to control. Chronic pain should be evaluated
by a pain specialist for early intervention.
Does chronic pain affect psychologically?
Sadly, it does indeed. Chronic pain can generate
depression, sadness, anger, frustration and usually interferes with
work, relationships and has an effect on family members. At Advanced
Spine Pain Solutions we offer psychological referrals and support throughout
your pain management care. We believe in our patients, and better quality
of life is what we strive for.
Should I drive myself to my appointment?
You will be advised of the need for a driver if you are to receive
an injection. Your initial visit to the Advanced Spine Pain Solutions
will last approximately two hours. The diagnosis and treatment process requires
approximately four visits.
Can I go back to work after my visit?
If you receive an epidural injection, we usually recommend
you take it easy and let your body be your guide. Depending on the your occupation,
you sometimes can return to work after the appropriate recovery time.
Whom do I call for a prescription refill?
Please call our office at (956) 795.8393 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00
p.m. Monday through Friday.
What if I have additional questions?
When you call our office with a medical question, please feel free to speak
with one of our experienced nurses. If they are unable to answer your question,
they will consult with a physician and call you back as soon as possible.
In the event of an emergency, please go directly to the nearest emergency
room and ask them to contact your primary care physician.
Is pain management covered by health insurance?
Most policies provide for pain management. Please call our office for more
information, (956) 795.8393.
What medications are most commonly used to manage
pain?
While drug therapies differ for each person, the most common are:
- Adjuvant pain medications, including: antidepressants, anticonvulsants
and muscle relaxors.
- Opiates or “pain killers” used to treat acute pain
or cancer-related pain, and often prescribed for chronic pain.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain by reducing swelling
and irritation.
There are alternative delivery methods for medications. Common methods used
at the office are oral medications, topical creams, sublingual medicines,
nasal sprays, injections and patches.
What about non-drug pain relief?
Simple techniques, such as abdominal breathing and jaw relaxation can help
to increase your comfort level. Cold packs, massage, rest, and TENS therapy
are some other non-drug relief methods. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve
Stimulation) is often helpful and quick to act and can be controlled by you.
Will I become addicted to my pain medication?
A drug addiction is not usually associated with pain medication. Addictions
are more likely to occur when you are using a drug to get “high” rather
than to relieve pain. Your doctors will monitor the dosage of your prescription
to make sure you are not taking an amount that will become addictive. The
purpose of taking pain medication is for the beneficial effects it produces.
If you take your medicine as directed, your should not have any problems.
If my pain is associated with my illness, isn’t
the pain unavoidable?
Even if your pain is caused by a medical condition, you don’t have
to be in pain. In fact, being able to control your pain will help you in
the treatment of your condition. If your pain medications are working, you
will be able to eat, sleep, perform regular activities, and enjoy a better
quality of life. The patients who are strong and rested are better able to
fight their medical condition and actively participate in their treatment.
If my pain is due to cancer, can it be relieved?
Of course it can. Cancer and pain can be controlled in approximately 90 percent
of all patients through methods such as oral pain medication. Your doctors
will help you find the best way for you to control your pain.
My friends and family want to help. What can they do?
There is a lot that your friends and family can do to make your life
easier. They can run errands for you, or help you around the house.
They can help you complete your journal and keep written records
of your pain and your medications.
What do I bring to my appointment?
You should bring in any x-ray or MRI films and copies of results and
any medical records pertaining to your pain.
