Pain management aims to reduce the frequency and intensity of acute or chronic pain. It also includes increasing the patient's level of activity to boost his quality of life and help him return to work and daily activities. Patients who have joint, back or neck problems may need pain management. Those who have undergone debilitating back surgeries or those who are newly injured may also need therapy. Others who may need pain management include patients with headaches and migraines, fibromyalgia, arthritis and nerve-related pain.
The Internet
Services such as MDNationwide will provide you with a doctor's training, awards, education, any malpractice history, license status and board-certification status for a fee. The New Jersey Center for Spine & Pain Management at Advanced Wellness website lists board-certified doctors in pain management. The New Jersey Center for Pain Management may also be a good place to start. The website lists several doctors.
Insurance
Contact your insurance company. Therapy might be less expensive for you if you choose a pain management doctor within a specific network from your insurance company.
State Medical Board
Contact the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners. The website provides you with the practitioner's education, training and practice. The site also lists doctors who are actively licensed and currently permitted to practice in New Jersey, as well as some practitioners whose licenses are suspended, revoked or have been voluntarily surrendered. The doctor you choose should be board certified and have a medical license.
First-Hand Experience
Interview doctors. Ask about success rates, treatment plans and any other questions you can think of. Talk to other patients about their experiences with a particular doctor.
Warning
Some therapies for pain management include medications, some of which can lead to addiction, especially if misused. If you are an addict or recovering addict, tell your doctor. There are pain management therapies that can be customized for your situation so that you are not in danger of a relapse. Tell your doctor whether your pain ranges from occasional and mild to constant and severe. This will help determine the best course of therapy. Chronic pain can sometimes affect your mood. Join a support group or get counseling if you feel like your pain is the source of depression, anxiety or other issues.
