Pain is a symptom of injury or disease or both. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute pain is caused by tissue damage and is usually due to acute trauma or surgery. Chronic pain may be caused by an underlying disease or disorder, such as arthritis, cancer, fibromyalgia, or tension headaches. Acute pain is often associated with other symptoms like fever, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, it can be a sign of illness. If you have any of these symptoms while experiencing pain, Dr. John Huffman Arlington can help.
Below are reasons you should see a pain management specialist.
Identify the source of pain
If you have a chronic condition that causes pain on a regular basis, it is important to identify what is causing your symptoms. Pain management specialists will look at your medical history and perform tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and MRV to rule out any serious conditions that may be causing your pain. They will also ask about your lifestyle and habits, including things like whether you exercise regularly and how much sleep you get each night.
Treat your symptoms with therapy
Once the source of your pain has been identified, you’ll work with a therapist or physical therapist who specializes in treating chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, or back problems. You’ll likely see them once a week for an hour per session or more often if needed for longer sessions that include exercises designed to increase blood flow throughout your body and decrease inflammation levels in certain areas such as joints.
Treat any secondary conditions
Pain management specialists can also treat other conditions that may be associated with your pain, such as muscle spasms or inflammation. Sometimes, they will even be able to help you recover faster from an injury that’s limiting your mobility. And if your pain is due to a serious condition like chronic back pain, they might not just be able to treat it. They could also help you get back on track with treatment and exercise regimens that will help prevent future flare-ups.
Improved quality of life
When you have chronic pain, it can affect your ability to go about your day-to-day activities and make simple decisions like getting dressed or going out to eat with friends. Having someone who knows exactly how you feel can help reduce stress levels and improve your overall quality of life.
Improve sleep
Chronic pain can cause insomnia and daytime drowsiness, making it difficult to sleep at night or stay awake during the day. Pain management specialists can recommend treatments that help you sleep better and avoid daytime drowsiness so you feel rested during the day and can function effectively at work or school.
Pain management specialists provide an array of services, including treatment for acute and chronic pain, as well as diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, and other therapies. They work to help patients live more comfortably and with less pain. Pain management specialists work in different settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private practices. If you are experiencing pain, contact Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists.