What Happens at a Pain Management Consultation?

Why Schedule a Pain Management Consultation?

If you’re struggling with chronic pain and are looking for a way to ease it, a pain management consultation may be just what you need. Besides medication, pain physicians can help you manage pain with behavioral, physical, and psychological therapies. If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably asking yourself, “What happens at a pain management consultation?” Continue reading to find out.

What You Can Expect at a Pain Management Consultation.

When you first book your appointment at Brain & Spine, LLC, it’s important that you explain what type of pain you’re dealing with and where it’s located so that they’re able to match you with the best treatment plan to meet your needs. When first meeting with a doctor, they may do a physical exam, pain assessment, run diagnostic tests or imaging (x-ray or MRI). Doctors may ask you about your medical, family, and social history. It’s important to know that every question asked is so the doctor can find the treatment that will work best for you.

Tests and Treatments for Chronic Pain.

Brain & Spine, LLC has various ways to treat each individual’s pain. They offer treatments such as epidural steroid injections or spinal cord stimulation, both of which target back pain. We also provide Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction studies to diagnose many conditions, such as; ALS, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy, Peripheral Nerve Disorders, and Radiculopathies, among others. These tests are usually done in conjunction with each other and are non-invasive.

During a Nerve Conduction Study, the doctor will attach a series of electrodes to the part of your body where you’re experiencing pain or other nerve function issues. Usually, this test causes no pain, although you may feel some discomfort from the shock. The doctor will usually start with the lowest shock wave and go up until your nerves react.

Electromyography shows the doctor whether your nerves are functioning properly and how well your nerves are communicating with your muscles. Although an EMG does involve a needle, it is relatively painless. During an EMG, very thin needles with electrodes are inserted into symptomatic muscles to measure the muscle’s activity when stimulated and at rest. These needles are similar to those used in acupuncture, so they are minuscule.

Both of these tests take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour altogether and can be performed at the Harrison Avenue or State Avenue office. These tests are very low risk and do not require much planning ahead; however, you will want to avoid applying creams and lotions for at least 24 hours beforehand. You can eat prior to these tests, and be sure to wear comfortable clothing.

Determining the Right Treatment for You.

Once your consultation and tests are completed, your doctor will be able to determine the treatment that best suits you. Doctors may use a variety of treatments like physical therapy, injections, nerve stimulation, or even surgery. Each patient is different, so the more information you provide, the examination, and the tests performed are crucial to finding the proper way to treat you. Now that you know what happens at a pain management consultation, you might be ready to schedule one. Contact us today at your closest office location if you think you’re in need of assistance from a pain management specialist.