Many people experience pain. It’s a normal part of life and can be caused by anything from an injury to arthritis or conditions such as cancer. When the pain becomes too much to handle, people often turn to their doctor for help treating it. This is where pain management specialists come in. Faheem Abbasi, MD, a pain management specialist in New Jersey, works with patients experiencing various types of acute and chronic pain.
If you’re looking for a pain management specialist, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier. Below are some tips.
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Get Referrals
First, ask your doctor for a referral. If you have insurance, check with your provider to see any pain management specialists in your network. You can also do an online search for “pain management specialists near me” and your city or state. Suppose your doctor cannot offer any solid recommendations. In that case, you can check with the American Academy of Pain Management (AAPM) or the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) for a list of certified pain management specialists in your area.
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Interview Candidates
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential specialists, it’s time to start interviewing candidates. You’ll want to ask them about their experience with your particular type of pain, what procedures they offer to treat your condition, and how often you’ll need an appointment. You should also inquire about the results you can expect from treatment.
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Look for a Specialist with the Appropriate Qualifications
Before you decide on a doctor, be sure to take note of their qualifications. Ask yourself questions such as: Does the doctor specialize in pain management? Are they board-certified? What type of treatment options do they offer?
You should also ensure that the doctor’s office is equipped to handle your condition. For example, if you have cancer-related pain, you’ll want to find a specialist who has experience treating patients with cancer.
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Consider Their Level of Experience
You should choose a pain management specialist with whom you feel comfortable. For instance, if you’re nervous about starting treatment, find someone who has plenty of experience and offers sedation or local anesthesia. Additionally, physical therapists can help you manage your pain by teaching you exercises to strengthen your muscles and joints, so they become less painful over time.
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Ask About Their Treatment Approach
Pain management specialists use a variety of approaches to treat pain. Some doctors may prefer medications, while others may rely on injections, surgery, or other procedures. Make sure you understand the doctor’s approach and how it will fit into your overall treatment plan.
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Consider the Costs
Finally, if your insurance doesn’t cover the pain management specialist you’re considering, check with the AAPM to see if it offers memberships. Also, research treatment centers in your area, as they often offer discounted procedures. You can also look into pharmaceutical companies that may help pay for medications or other treatments.
In summary, chronic pain is a common problem but finding a pain management specialist comes with some challenges. To find the right one, get recommendations from your doctor and interview potential candidates. Ask about their qualifications and consider their level of experience. It also helps to ask about the cost of treatment and their treatment approach.
