A 2020 CDC study shows that nearly 21% of Americans suffer from chronic pain. Not only that, but the same study revealed nearly 8% of Americans' lives or work are impacted by their pain.

Are you one of these many Americans suffering from chronic pain? Whether your pain is from aging, sports injuries, or an unknown cause, you don't have to suffer in silence.

You have options. Working with the best pain management doctors near you offers you a true solution.

Pain management is a specialization in the medical field. Pain management doctors are trained to help you find the source of your pain. They will help you treat the pain as well as any underlying causes when they work with you.

You can learn to manage your pain beyond quick fixes, medication, or surgeries. Expert pain management doctors will use multiple methods to manage your pain.

Curious about how to pick the best pain management doctors for your complaints? There are a few steps you can take to make sure you find the perfect match. Read on to find out what to look for when you're choosing a doctor.

Consult Your Network

When you're dealing with pain, life can feel dull and colorless. Pain takes up energy that you'd rather use for exercise, spending time with loved ones, and work. But it doesn't have to stay that way.

You can give yourself a new lease on life when you work with experienced professionals. When you're living with pain, you may feel overwhelmed. As a result, it's easy to put off choosing a pain management doctor near you.

But when you do, you'll see big changes in your life. When you're picking your pain management doctor, it helps to consult with your network.

Ask a doctor you trust for their recommendations. Depending on the cause of your pain, they may refer you to different professionals.

You may benefit from visiting a pain management clinic with multiple practitioners. There you can meet with a pain management physician. But you may also have other treatment options.

Also, ask your friends. If you're suffering from sports-related injuries, ask gym buddies for their recommendations.

Do Your Research

Once you've found a few doctors to check out, you'll want to research their qualifications. Read reviews online to see what people are saying about working with them. You can also check out their qualifications.

They may have certain areas of expertise or have additional holistic training. The American Board of Anesthesiology offers a pain management certification.

You can check their database to see if your doctor has a pain management certification. If you want someone specialized in advanced pain management, check through their database.

It does not matter if the pain is brand new or you've been living despite it for years. Many Americans are stoic and think they need to grin and bear it when they deal with pain.

You can find the right doctor for you and begin to make small yet profound changes. Over time, you'll find big changes in how you feel. That's why it's so vital you work with the right doctor for you.

Get Specific About Your Needs

Before working with pain management doctors, get clear on what you hope to change. If you're dealing with a mystery pain, you'll want to find out the source and causes.

If you're dealing with chronic pain from sports injuries you will need a specialist. If you have acute pain due to a work injury or fall, your needs will be different.

Ask your potential doctors about their areas of experience. If you have a specific diagnosis, check with them if they're familiar. You can also look into what kind of approach they take depending on your needs.

You have options beyond surgery and opioids. An experienced pain management clinic will look at you holistically. They'll offer different therapies.

These may include a range of approaches such as:

• Physical therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Mind-body therapy
• Acupuncture
• Massage
• Mindfulness training

You have options to manage your pain. With the right doctors, you'll be sure they're treating you as an individual. You will never be just a statistic when working with pain management doctors.

Meet on Your Terms

Have a think before you choose a pain management doctor about how you want things to work. Do you want to have telehealth meeting options? If your mobility is compromised, you can check with your clinic to see what they offer.

Another thing to look out for is how many offices they have. You'll want to find a location near you, so it's helpful to see if they have multiple offices.

You'll also want to speak with the clinic about your insurance. If you are uninsured or have limited coverage, you'll want to find out your options. An experienced clinic will discuss insurance coverage and billing with you.

Work With the Best Pain Management Doctors

Choosing the best pain management doctors doesn't need to be overwhelming. Using your network and referrals you can find the right doctor for you.

Once you research, you can ask the doctor about their experience and approach. After you make sure working together is on your terms, you'll be on the way to recovery.

Ready to make changes and alleviate your pain? At AZ Pain Doctors, we're here to support you.

From sports injuries to aging pain, our experienced doctors are ready to work with you. Schedule your first appointment with us today!

When you're having skin problems you see a dermatologist. When you're having vision issues, you see an ophthalmologist. So why have you been trusting a general practitioner instead of a pain management specialist to treat your pain?

A pain management physician is an expert in diagnosing and treating all types of pain. So, if you have been struggling with pain and found no relief, it's time to make an appointment at a pain management clinic.

This article will give you more information on pain management doctors including who they are, why they are unique, and what you can expect from their services.

What Is a Pain Management Physician?

A pain management doctor can diagnose signs and symptoms of pain and pain-related conditions. Once they determine the underlying cause of the problem, they use a number of techniques including physical therapy and medication to treat patients.

They treat acute (short-term) pain such as an injured back and they treat chronic (long-term) pain such as sciatica. Pain management doctors treat pain that comes from muscles, nerves, and joints.

A pain management doctor is different from a primary care doctor because they have training and experience in pain-related conditions. They have unique knowledge and skills that other doctors don't have. If you have been dealing with pain and nothing seems to be working, consider a pain management doctor.

Your First Visit

Are you preparing for your first visit with a pain management doctor? Here is what you can expect:

First, the doctor will ask you to describe the pain you're having. Where does it hurt, how intense is the pain, how often does it hurt, etc. He or she may also ask about what you have tried already to reduce pain.

It helps to prepare for your visit by taking down a few notes about your pain or keeping. pain journal. If you notice that certain activities make the pain better or worse, write it down. Then, share it with your doctor during that initial discussion. The more information you can give them, the better they will be able to help you.

Once you are done discussing symptoms, the doctor may conduct a series of tests. Testing could include anything from a movement screening to an MRI. The exact tests will depend on your symptoms and the doctor's advice. After testing, the doctor will walk you through each step of your treatment plan.

The treatment plan can consist of a combination of medication, exercises, and other lifestyle changes. The pain management doctor may ask you to schedule one or more follow-up appointments based on your condition. Remember to ask any relevant questions you have during your visit. The doctor is there to help you!

Types of Treatment

As mentioned above, pain management doctors will use different types of treatment based on the patient's pain and/or diagnosis. The first line of treatment may be the use of medication (i.e., anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxers). Baseline pain medications may be appropriate for acute pain from an accident or injury but they are not a long-term solution to pain.

A pain management doctor can also recommend yoga, stretching, or physical therapy exercises to reduce pain and increase mobility. They might also recommend diet and exercise changes to promote faster healing.

Other early treatment options include interventional pain management such as spinal injections or nerve blocks. These treatments work by blocking pain signals to the brain.

Finally, a pain management doctor can use transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS) to create an electrical current through the affected area. This process involved skin pads attached to the skin.

For more advanced pain management, doctors can use radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or viscosupplementation. RFA uses heat or chemicals to interrupt the signal between the body and brain. Viscosupplementation involves an injection of fluid into affected joints to reduce pain. RFA and viscosupplementation are often used for patients with arthritis-related pain.

The last stage of pain management treatment is either stronger medications (opioids) or an implant (pain pump/spinal cord stimulator). If the devices can interrupt the pain signal, the patient can inexperience long-term relief from pain.

Over the last few decades, the United States developed a serious opioid addiction and overdose problem. Pain management specialists are becoming less likely to prescribe opioids if they can find a safer, viable solution. If you are struggling with opioid addiction, seek help.

Treatment for pain is highly personalized. What works for one person may not work for another. The job of a great pain management doctor is to create the right treatment plan for your individual needs.

When to See a Pain Management Doctor

In some cases, a primary care doctor will refer his or her patient to a pain management doctor. In other cases, it's up to the patient to ask for a referral or to seek out a pain management clinic.

If you have recently been in an accident or have an injury that is causing you pain, a pain management doctor can help. If you have arthritis, chronic back pain, or any other type of long-term pain condition, you should see a pain management doctor. And if you have tried several solutions to manage pain without success, that's another reason to contact a pain management doctor.

Before scheduling an appointment, check the conditions that the doctor treats and the types of treatments they use. You can also check whether the doctor accepts your health insurance to make sure the treatment is affordable.

Meet the Best Pain Management Doctors

At AZ Pain Doctors we have experienced pain management physicians to help you return to a pain-free life. So whether it's acute pain from an injury or chronic pain from arthritis, we will work with you to find a treatment plan that works with your lifestyle.

When you're ready to make an appointment, contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!

50 million US adults are living with chronic pain. Chronic pain can have devastating effects, costing the American economy up to $80 billion in lost wages each year.

But the damage is far more than financial. Pain can significantly affect your quality of life. It makes it difficult to focus on what’s most important to you, including your family, friends, and career. It’s the reason you need to find a treatment solution as soon as possible.

That’s where a pain management specialist comes in. These experts can help tackle different types of chronic pain. In today’s post, we take a closer look at what a pain management doctor is and why it is beneficial to see one. We’ll also show you how to select the best pain management doctors in Arizona.

Read on to learn more.

What Is a Pain Management Specialist?

A pain management specialist refers to a doctor who’s trained to evaluate and treat pain problems. These pain issues may range from sudden issues such as headaches to more long-lasting problems like lower back pain.

Pain management doctors typically use a multi-disciplinary approach when addressing your pain. That may include medication-based treatment to other procedures meant to identify and treat the problem. Generally, the idea is to reduce your pain and enhance your quality of life.

Main Categories of Pain That Pain Specialists Treat

People who visit a pain management clinic usually do so as a result of these categories of pain:

• Pain caused by direct injury to the tissue, such as arthritis
• Pain caused by a nerve injury or a disease of the nervous system, including a stroke
• Pain resulting from both nerve and tissue injury, for instance, back pain

The moment you experience any of these types of pain, specialized treatment from a pain management doctor can prove helpful.

3 Reasons To Visit a Qualified Pain Management Doctor

Pain can be a complex health problem. For that reason, it’s critical to see a physician with specialized knowledge on treating the condition. Here are three specific ways a pain management specialist will help you.

1. You Get To Receive Personalized and Comprehensive Care

Pain management specialists provide a comprehensive pain management program. They can customize that treatment plan to include both medication and interventional therapies. And depending on your specific problem, your doctor can prescribe physical therapy.

But why is a personalized pain management approach so critical? Well, every patient is unique. Each patient’s lifestyle, symptoms, and condition differ.

2. A Pain Doctor Can Help Identify the Root Cause of Your Pain

A pain management specialist’s first and most important goal is to find out what’s causing your pain. In doing so, it becomes easier to formulate a treatment plan that can help tackle it.

Often, the process of identifying your pain’s root cause can be quite challenging. That’s because many cases of chronic pain are complex.

However, a specialist’s advanced pain management training makes it possible for them to conduct a thorough evaluation that includes a variety of tests. This way, they can pinpoint the specific underlying causes of your symptoms.

3. You Get To Enjoy the Latest in Pain Research

The best pain management specialists stay up-to-date when it comes to current research in pain management. Thus, they can offer their patients only the best treatment. Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe treatment that you may not even be aware exists.

Your pain management doctor can opt to use injection therapy, which is usually guided by radiofrequency ablation and fluoroscopy. In the recent past, there have been major developments in regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which can prove highly beneficial if you suffer from musculoskeletal issues.

By visiting a pain management specialist, you can get a personalized treatment plan that exposes you to the latest pain management plans.

How To Choose the Right Pain Management Specialist

Now that you’ve seen how a pain management doctor can help you, you’re probably interested in seeing one. So how can you tell which doctor to visit in Arizona? Here are a few suggestions to guide you.

Only Work With a Licensed Specialist

When it comes to something as important and sensitive as your health, it’s critical to make sure that you only work with a qualified specialist. The first proof that your potential pain doctor is qualified is being fully licensed to work in your state.

A top pain management doctor will have no problem providing you with proof of being licensed. If one seems hesitant to do so, it’s a major red flag.

Check Whether They Have a Multispecialty Facility

A multispecialty facility is one that offers a variety of medical services. As we pointed out before, different categories of pain have different root causes. Besides, your pain may be linked to other medical conditions, such as cancer.

The best family management clinic will have a range of specialties, such as vein care, family medicine, pain management, and more.

Opt for a Clinic That Offers a Comfortable and Friendly Environment

The best pain care facilities realize the importance of a comfortable environment for their clients. Such an environment provides the best healing condition for you, which is just what you need when you’ve been enduring pain for a while.

Enjoy the Benefits of Seeing a Pain Management Specialist

Whether you’re experiencing a migraine, back pain, neck pain, or some other type of pain, seeing a pain management specialist can be the solution to your troubles. These experts have the specialized knowledge and resources you need for the fastest possible healing for patients.

Are you interested in the services of a reliable pain management doctor? Please, schedule an appointment with us today to learn how we can help.

Debilitating pain can distract you from living your life properly. When your quality of life suffers, it can make you miserable. You must find a solution to your pain before it comes between important things, like work and family.

If you’re finding it difficult to manage your pain, you may benefit from visiting a pain management center. There are tons of advantages to getting help from a pain management doctor. Take a look below.

What Does a Pain Doctor Do?

A pain doctor specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic pain. They are trained to spot things that general practitioners may not and they can provide treatments that only they have access to. You can ask your regular doctor to refer you to a pain management doctor near you.

Here are some of the benefits of getting that referral.

1. Personalized Care

It’s important to receive personalized care because no two patients are ever the same. When you visit a pain management center, you’ll benefit from medications, interventional therapy, and physical therapy, all tailored to your needs.

When considering chronic pain, there are many factors that can attribute to the condition. These include lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, weight, stress, and even your posture. Your doctor will be able to evaluate these factors and create a treatment plan that gets you the best results.

2. Cause of Pain

Pain management isn’t just about treating pain; it’s about identifying the root cause. It isn’t always easy to identify the cause of pain but pain doctors are in the best position to do so. Your doctor may arrange several tests in order to perform a thorough evaluation.

Once your doctor can diagnose the reason for your symptoms, it will be much easier to put together a treatment plan that targets your specific condition and what you find most difficult to deal with.

3. Research and Innovation

Research in pain medicine and management develops constantly. Although your general doctor may not be up to date with the newest research, your pain doctor should be. It also means that you’ll have access to the latest treatments for pain much quicker.

Pain doctors can often use injection therapy in tangent with radiofrequency ablation and fluoroscopy. These developments in pain management are ideal for patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions. Visiting a pain doctor is often the only way to find true relief from this type of chronic pain.

4. Honest Communication

Your pain doctor will have a vast amount of training and experience. You can guarantee that the type of pain you are in has been seen before. This means you won’t end up looking at a blank stare when you describe your symptoms.

You can be completely honest about what you’re feeling, physically and emotionally, and it will make perfect sense to your pain doctor. Advanced pain management is about communication just as much as anything else. The more you tell your doctor, the easier it will be to establish why the pain is happening.

It’s also important, to be honest about how your treatment program is working for you. If you aren’t feeling any change in your pain, it’s important to say so. This will mean that your doctor can tweak your treatment plan until you find something that works for you.

What Treatment Methods Are Available?

There are several different treatment methods that your doctor could prescribe for your condition. Including medications to manage your pain, many forms of therapy could alleviate your pain when it’s at its worst. Here are some of the therapies your doctor may recommend:

• Massage
• Physical therapy
• Hydrotherapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic care
• Relaxation techniques
• Meditation

These therapies can all be used in conjunction with medication and you may try a mixture of these therapies, rather than just one at a time. This will depend on your diagnosis.

Why Choose AZ Pain Doctors?

At AZ Pain Doctors, we understand the detrimental effect that chronic pain can have on your quality of life. Many general doctors will prescribe powerful narcotics without getting to the root of the pain. Here, we diagnose the problem before trying to treat it.

This means we can provide a treatment program based on evidence and best practices. Research suggests that a multidisciplinary approach is the best way to manage pain. Our friendly and qualified team will always aim to reduce your pain as far as possible.

Some of our treatments include acupuncture, botox injections, cortisone injections, epidural steroid injections, Flograft Amino stem cell therapy, radiofrequency ablation, and more.

We are committed to offering the highest standards of service to our patients but most importantly, allowing you to gain a better quality of life. Take a browse through our website at what we offer and the conditions we frequently work with.

Make Your Appointment at Our Pain Management Center

Living with chronic pain isn’t something you should have to put up with. Visiting our pain management center is the best way to start your journey to reduced pain. Seeking the help of a pain doctor expands your options for pain relief; options that your regular doctor may not be able to offer you.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the type of treatments available and the tests you can have to get a diagnosis, we’re always here to help. Why not schedule an appointment with us today?