Recognising the right time to consult a pain specialist
20 September, 2024
Living with chronic pain is incredibly tough, and if you’re one of the many who suffer, statistics don't matter much. What matters is your pain.
The good news is that many people don’t need to suffer as they do. Often, it’s just a matter of not knowing where to start or who to turn to for help.
That’s why we’re here—to guide you through pain management. It’s important to understand when to seek help from a pain specialist, what might hold you back, and how to get the most from your visit.
Understanding the Impact
Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than three months, and it can:
- Disrupt daily activities
- Interfere with sleep and eating
- Make it hard to work
- Be linked to feelings of depression or anxiety
- Prevent you from spending time with loved ones
- If any of these are affecting your life, it’s time to regain control. Consulting with a pain management specialist can be the first step toward improving your quality of life.
Common Barriers to Seeking Help
Sometimes, it seems easier to just accept the pain, especially if previous treatments haven’t worked. Other reasons people delay seeking help include:
- Thinking pain is just a part of aging
- Assuming it's hereditary
- Hoping it will go away on its own
- Being too busy with work or family
- Worrying about being seen as a complainer
- Fearing addiction to pain medications
- These reasons are understandable, but none of them should stop you from getting help. You don’t have to endure pain without taking action.
Pain management doctors are specially trained to diagnose and treat pain caused by illness or injury. Here’s how to make the most of your appointment:
- Be open about what has worked (and what hasn’t) in the past.
- Describe your pain in your own words—don’t worry about being seen as a complainer.
- Be ready to make lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet or quitting smoking, if recommended.
- Ask questions—new treatments are always emerging, and your doctor is there to explain your options.
- Share any concerns, whether they involve medications, treatment costs, or anything else holding you back.
As our understanding of pain evolves, so does our ability to treat it. Ruby Pain Clinic is here in your city, ready to help whenever you’re ready.
Link to Blog : https://nilepost.co.ug/health/217155/ruby-pain-clinicrecognising-the-right-time-to-consult-a-pain-specialist
