Why would a pain mangment treat a person who used to be opiate dependent? why would they still give them pain meds?

Not contraindicated: These patients can still be treated with opioids. An appropriate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan should be developed to try and avoid the need for these medications. If they are indicated then close monitoring of the patient along with counseling can provide safe use despite a history of abuse.

Non opioids: Pain specialists can treat pain in 100's of ways without using opioids or narcotics actually. The better trained and educated the pain specialist, the more options she can give to treat pain. Someone who has an addiction should see a doctor who is trained to treat addiction. Pain can still be treated with someone who is addicted but it may take a team of specialists.