If you’ve ever been told you might need an injection for pain relief for your back, neck, or a joint, you may have wondered why your doctor wants an MRI first. It’s not just about confirming what hurts; it’s about seeing exactly what’s going on beneath the surface so your treatment can be as precise …
Today’s specialists use a whole-body, multidisciplinary approach that often includes non- and minimally invasive procedures, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive treatments. Gone are the days of just writing pain medicine prescriptions. Modern pain management focuses on reducing or eliminating pain, avoiding surgery when possible, and limiting long-term reliance on medications. Whether your treatment …
Questions to Ask Your Pain Specialist Before Starting Treatment Read More »
Many people assume living with chronic pain is something that happens only in later life, but it doesn’t discriminate. While your risk does increase as you get older, it can affect children, teens, young adults, mid-life adults, newly retired folks or anyone in between whose body has decided to wage war against itself.[1; 2] Often, …
Simple Changes to Make Your Home Safer If You Live With Pain Read More »
Maybe you’ve twisted your ankle, caught the flu or just cut a simple paper, but (tiny but boy, do they hurt!). You most likely experience redness, warmth and swelling, which means your body’s emergency response system has been triggered. Symptoms of inflammation are your body’s way of defending itself and starting the healing process. But …
If you’re one of the 51 million adults in the United States who live with chronic pain, you’ve probably been looking for real, lasting relief.[1] Persistent discomfort that impacts your daily life and well-being without a known cause can be frustrating, but your doctor may suggest a diagnostic nerve block or neural blockade.[2] Think of …
What a Diagnostic Nerve Block Can Tell You About Your Pain Read More »
“Sit up straight!” “Shoulders back!” “Stop slouching!” If you grew up hearing these reminders from parents or teachers, they were definitely onto something! Good posture really does matter. However, it’s not just about appearing confident or following instructions. The way you sit, stand, and move affects your entire body, everything from your head and neck …
Over 51 million American adults live with daily pain, making it the leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S.[1] But chronic pain affects far more than your body; it can impact your mood, sleep, work, and relationships. If you or someone you love lives with daily pain, you already know that medication alone often …
The Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Pain Management Read More »
Living with chronic pain can be a physical and emotional drain, and sometimes, it can make you feel completely alone. Trying to explain your pain and concerns to your doctor can be frustrating, especially when you don’t feel fully heard or understood. However, with a bit of planning and practice, you can ensure that your …
How to Advocate for Yourself in a Pain Management Setting Read More »
Living with ongoing pain can be tough, but when that pain feels out of proportion to an injury or seems to take on a life of its own, it may be something more than “just healing.” Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a broad term that describes chronic nerve pain that is an overreaction to …
Understanding Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Read More »
Dealing with constant nerve pain can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t know exactly what’s causing it. Advanced tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS), enable your doctor to conduct a detailed examination of how your muscles and nerves are functioning. Once your pain management specialist understands the underlying cause of your …
How EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies Help Diagnose Nerve Pain Read More »