Q & A

Let us help you with some of the most commonly asked questions about pain management.

 

What should I look for in a pain management specialist? Pain Medicine is a subspecialty recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS, www.abms.org). To practice pain medicine one must become a Medical Doctor (M.D.) or Doctor of Osetopathy (D.O.). Most pain physicians complete their primary training in anesthesiology, neurology or physical medicine and rehabilitation. In order to become a Board Certified pain physician, the doctor must complete a fellowship in Pain Management and pass the rigorous testing requirements of the ABMS. Look for a physician who is Board Certified by the ABMS, in the specialty of Pain Medicine.

 

What is the difference between acute and chronic pain? Acute pain is typically the result of an injury, illness or surgery and doesn't last long. Chronic pain is persistent pain and is an ongoing condition. One in five adults (45 million people) are living with what they describe as chronic pain.

 

Will my insurance cover my treatment? Most major insurance plans provide coverage. Please call 615.223.6200 and speak with our staff to find out about your insurance.

 

What can I expect on my first visit? Bring your medical records, and any recent x-ray's, MRI's or other scans. At Precision Pain care, all new patients will be evaluated by a physician who is board certified in pain medicine.

 

Can I drive home? If you are having a spinal procedure, you must arrange for someone to drive you home.

 

What are NSAID's? Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are all examples. Most are readily available without a prescription and are non-narcotic.

 

What is a cortisone or corticosteroid injection? Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication. The injection is placed precisely at the particular area of inflammation and the effects can last for several weeks.

 

What is an epidural? The most well-known use for an epidural is while giving birth. But epidural steroid injections (ESI's) have been a common treatment for low back pain and leg pain since 1952. In order to get the best response from the medication, fluoroscopic guidance must be used to ensure the needle is placed at the precise source of pain, usually a nerve, nerve root, disk or facet joint.

 

What is fluoroscopic guidance? A fluoroscope is an imaging technology that allows the practitioner to see the spinal anatomy with the use of contrast agent. This live video aids the clinician in guiding the medication to the precise source of pain.