Finding the Right Pain Specialist in Austin, Texas
What is Chronic Pain
The CDC reports that 20.4% of adults in the USA have experienced chronic pain of some sort or another. Another 8% of adults in the USA have experienced "high-impact" chronic pain. CDC defines chronic pain as pain that lasts longer than six weeks and can even last months or years.
This kind of pain and suffering can result from a past illness, injury, or a number of other reasons. When someone suffers from chronic pain, it can be debilitating. It can cause you to suffer in all areas of your life. The discomfort can keep you from participating in social engagements or even keep you from working. It can even cause those who suffer to develop depression and anxiety.
However, there is hope. A Pain Specialist can help you manage your symptoms to reduce them or even get rid of them entirely. Excel Pain Management of Austin, Texas, believes that you need a partner to treat chronic pain.
So how do you pick the right pain specialist? Here's what to look for:
When you look for any specialist, you need to find someone who fits your needs and makes you feel comfortable.
Compassion
When looking for a pain clinic, it is important to find doctors with compassion and a kind, bedside manner. Chronic pain takes its toll on you physically and emotionally. Your doctor should be someone who has empathy for what you are going through and the ability to instill optimism.
Someone Who Listens and Respect You
You know your pain, know your body, and know your experience. Choose a doctor who will listen to you and your concerns. Working together for treatment will get you further in your recovery. Having confidence in your partner is essential.
Someone Who Involves You in Your Treatment
You are the one who has to work through your recovery. Your doctor should talk through with you the information you need to know about your condition, the reason you have pain, and your treatment options. You should have a part in the planning for your treatment.
Someone Who Looks at Your History
Your medical history can give insight into what is happening and why you are experiencing pain. A doctor who underestimates your medical past may be missing a part of the puzzle of their diagnosis.
Someone who Takes an Individual Approach
There is no "one size fits all approach" to treating chronic pain. You are an individual, and what works for you might not work for someone else. When deciding on a Pain Specialist, find someone who focuses on you and has various options to tailor to your treatment.
Someone who Gives You Their Time
In our fast-paced world, we often feel like doctors are shuffling us through their offices. Patients often complain that they don't get sufficient time for the doctor to assess our situation and our needs. Find a specialist who will take time with you. Who genuinely sits down and talks with you about your concerns and questions.
Someone who has the Education and Experience
Your doctor has a duty to review your medical history. As a patient, you should be proactive in looking at your doctor's education and experience. Are they qualified to be your partner in this journey?
Someone with Cutting Edge Treatments
There are always medical field innovations, from fluoroscopic-guided therapies to advanced neuromodulation techniques. Find a clinic where they stay abreast on the cutting edge treatment tools.
They will have the best toolbox to help you and your unique pain condition. Even if these new treatments are not right for you, it shows that the doctor is continuously educating themselves on treatment to help their patients more effectively.
Someone who Understands Workers Compensation
You might need to file for worker's compensation because of your injury and pain. Find a specialist who can also be an expert for your case. They should know about the process and help you with what you need from a medical standpoint to file for worker's compensation while you recover.
Get Back to the Things You Enjoy
Chronic pain can slow you down and keep you from enjoying the things in life that you used to. You do not have to live with chronic pain.
There are experts in their fields that can help you find a treatment that works for you and your condition.
If you are in Austin, Texas, or the surrounding area, consider visiting Excelsior Pain Management. Dr. Chin and his staff strive to exemplify all the qualities on this list to provide the best care imaginable. Let's find the best plan for you and get you back to the things that you enjoy in life.