Pain
is one of the most common complaints presented to physicians today, yet
it is one of the most difficult medical problems to understand and
treat adequately. In the setting of an acute injury, pain serves a
useful purpose as a warning system of possible bodily harm. However, we
now understand that pain can occur without any discernible injury, and
can persist beyond the expected healing period.
Pain takes a tremendous toll, not only in human suffering, but also
causes enormous disruptions in personal relationships and employment.
Additionally, chronic pain has a tremendous economic impact on society.
Usual daily activities, once taken for granted, become physical and
mental challenges. Eventually, family members will become deeply
affected. Fortunately, many recent advances in the emerging field of
pain management offer hope to those who suffer from acute and chronic
pain.
It is our philosophy that the patient should take an active role in
their own treatment. We encourage patient involvement in the medical
decision-making process and invite questions and opinions regarding
treatment options.
Goals for Pain Management
Successful
reduction of chronic pain problems involves identifying and pursuing
some definite goals. Several of these objective include the following
goals:
REDUCE the use of medications and invasive medical procedures.
MAXIMIZE and maintain physical activity.
RETURN to productive activity at home and at work.
INCREASE the ability to manage pain and related problems.
REDUCE subjective pain intensity.
Our 10 step approach to pain
The American Chronic Pain Association has described critical steps for a patient to regain control of his or her life.
STEP ONE: Accept the pain. Learn all you can about your condition and understand that there may be no current cure.
STEP TWO: Get involved. Take an active role in your own recovery.
Follow your doctor's advice and move from a passive role into one of a
partnership.
STEP THREE: Learn to set priorities. Look beyond your pain to the
things that are important in your life. Use this as a starting point
for a more active life.
STEP FOUR: Set realistic goals. We all walk before we run. Set goals that are within your power to accomplish.
STEP FIVE: Know your basic rights. You have the right to be treated
with respect and to say no, without guilt, to do less than humanly
possible.
STEP SIX: Recognize your emotions. Emotions can directly affect
physical well being. If you can reduce your stress, perhaps you can
decrease your pain.
STEP SEVEN: Learn to relax. Relaxation techniques can help you to better manage your pain.
STEP EIGHT: Exercise. Most people with chronic pain fear exercise. But
unused muscles feel more pain than toned, flexible muscles.
STEP NINE: See the total picture. You will see that pain does not need
to be the center of your life. You can choose to focus on your
abilities, not your disabilities.
STEP TEN: Reach out. Living with chronic pain is an ongoing experience. We all support and learn from each other.
Checklist: 6 ways to ensure proper pain management
DON'T WAIT UNTIL YOUR PAIN LEVEL BECOMES SEVERE TO SEEK TREATMENT. An active approach to your pain will be more effective in the long run than "playing catch-up" with your pain treatment. If you are aware of a treatment that has worked in the past, inititate the same type of treatment before the pain becomes unbearable.
USE AN ADVOCATE IF NECESSARY. Ask a family member or friend to be your advocate if you have difficulty communicating or cannot speak for yourself. Keep this person informed of your pain. MAINTAIN RECORDS OF YOUR PAIN AND MEDICATIONS. Maintain an accurate record of your average pain level and the medications you're taking. Note location, time of day, severity, and what relieved the pain. Let the medical staff know if there were any side effects or problems with prescribed medications. Share this information with your doctor or nurse. MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR MEDICATIONS. Understand your doctor's orders for your pain medication. Make sure you understand the frequency, dose, and type of medication. If you have questions, ask them.
MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND OTHER TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS, SUCH AS INJECTIONS, PHYSICAL THERAPY OR PSYCHOLOGICAL TREATMENT. Ask the medical staff for a more thorough explanation if you're not exactly sure what is being recommended.
DON'T RUN OUT OF MEDICATIONS. Become an active team player. Understand that the Arizona Pain Specialists does not prescribe controlled medications after hours, on holidays or during the weekends. Plan ahead when receiving medications that are prescribed for your pain.
If you have any questions or concerns please visit our main site www.ArizonaPain.com
Arizona Pain Specialists 9787 N. 91st Street, Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85258
