When should a person seek a pain management specialist?

For Diagnosis &treat: Pm docs are great diagnostitions. They can order MRI or cxray to assist, then try injections or other therapies to increase function and quality of life. If surgery is indicated they may recommend a sugical eval.

Sooner than later: Acute pain that is adequately managed is like likely to turn chronic. Many primary care physicians do a fine job managing pain but if it is not well controlled then a consult is appropriate. Your doc can refer you to the right specialist to address the source of the pain if possible at first. A good comprehensive pain management specialist can also aid in the diagnostic work up.

For persistent pain: Pain management specialists usually get involved when the cause of the pain is hard to diagnose, and/or requires specialized medication knowledge or specialized procedures. Example - treatment of acute pain from a broken leg probably does not require a pain specialist. But a pain specialist could help diagnose and treat pain that persists after the fracture heals.

Pain specialist: If your pain persists or worsens, you should seek help from a pain management specialist.

If: Your pain is not controlled by the doctor you are seein in a manor that is satisfactory to you and you want something more or different.