Suffering from pain, whether it is acute or chronic, can get in the way of work, hobbies, and rest. Severe cases may be too much for home remedies to manage, meaning you may need the expertise of a medical professional. Fortunately, a health specialist called a pain management doctor can help.
Pain is an issue every person will encounter, so numerous doctors have chosen pain management as their specialization. Finding the right one for you can be challenging, but you can narrow down to the right doctor for you using these three tips.
1. Check All Possible Sources
You can use many sources of information to find pain management doctors. The first thing you should do is check your insurance coverage.
Your Insurance Provider
Most insurance companies require that you see doctors within their network. If you decide not to see one of these doctors, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for the appointments and treatments you receive. Simply call your insurance provider and ask for a list of in-network pain management doctors.
Keep in mind that some insurance providers and pain management doctors require a referral from a primary care doctor for new patients. If this applies to you, you will first need to see your primary care physician to get a referral, then find a pain management doctor and make an appointment.
Your Friends, Family, And Healthcare Providers
Other ways to find a pain management doctor include asking people you trust, like friends and family. You can also ask other health professionals you regularly see, such as your primary care doctor or specialists you see for health reasons.
The Internet
Don’t forget the reach of the internet! You can try the websites of the following institutions:
- The American Medical Association’s Doctor Finder
- The American Board of Medical Specialties Certification Matters
Additionally, MedlinePlus offers several directories of healthcare providers that may be useful in your search.
2. Learn More About Your Choices
Now, with a large number of pain management doctors to choose from, you will have to do research on them to make your list smaller. That will help you find the one most suited to your needs.
Experience And Credentials
Check if they are highly experienced and board-certified. A board-certified pain management doctor has spent extra time training to provide the best care possible. They have additional education and training than those who are not board-certified.
You can verify their credentials by browsing their website and by looking them up through the online database of The American Board of Medical Specialities.
Treatments Offered
You should also check the treatments the providers offer. All pain management doctors are capable of dealing with acute and chronic pain. However, the kind of treatments they specialize in may differ.
For instance, common nonsurgical treatments for pain include corticosteroid medications and physical therapy, but a good pain management doctor will also offer state-of-the-art treatments, like trans cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and radiofrequency ablation. Go with a doctor who offers a variety of treatments and keeps up with advancements in the field.
Location
You should consider the location of the doctor’s office, too. Visiting them will take time and energy, and severe pain can make travel difficult. To make your visits easier, look for pain management doctors near you.
3. Schedule A Consultation With Them
If you have a few pain management doctors to consider and have learned what you could about them online, it’s time to visit them in person. Visit each one for a consultation to see how the doctor and their staff will treat you.
During your visit, don’t hesitate to ask them about their credentials to confirm what you’ve researched. Also, feel free to ask any follow-up questions about your condition and the treatments they offer.
Afterward, think about your experience during the consultation. Ask yourself questions such as:
- Were you comfortable talking to the doctor?
- Was the staff welcoming and kind?
- Was your condition explained to you clearly and comprehensively?
- Was the doctor a good listener?
- Were you given opportunities to ask questions?
Pain Management Doctor Near You In Bad Axe, Rochester Hills, & Lapeer, MI
If you’re experiencing pain, you should seek the aid of a pain management doctor. They are highly skilled in relieving pain symptoms and improving quality of life. Other benefits of consulting a pain management doctor include avoiding severe medical conditions and saving money in the long run.
If you’re searching for one in Bad Axe, Rochester Hills, or Lapeer, you can turn to Ahlgren Spine Orthopaedic Surgery. Dr. Bradley Ahlgren, our board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, will provide the kind of care most suited to your needs. Do you have any questions about our services, or would you like to schedule a consultation with us? Call (248) 215-8080, or use our convenient online form to request a visit to the best spine surgeon near you!
We look forward to helping you live your best life!
