wellness – Restorative Pain Medicine Physicians

Are you one of the many individuals wondering, “Why is my doctor sending me to pain management?” If so, you’re not alone. Chronic pain affects millions of Americans, and for many, traditional medical treatments may not provide the relief they desperately seek.

When your doctor refers you to a pain management clinic, it means that you need a specialist to help you address your specific pain problems. For example, your primary care physician might refer you to a pain management specialist if:

Pain interrupts your daily functioning
Pain makes it hard to eat, sleep, or bathe
Pain affects your mood and judgment
Pain causes you mental distress
Pain exacerbates other medical conditions (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, etc.)
Pain prevents injury and wound healing

Restorative Pain Physicians operates as an extension of your primary care team. We maintain open lines of communication with your referring physician to ensure a seamless and coordinated approach to your care. This collaboration ensures that your pain management plan aligns with your overall health goals and any other medical treatments you may be undergoing.

Additionally, many insurance plans require your doctor to refer you to a pain management specialist to cover additional treatment.

Restorative Pain Medicine employs a multidisciplinary approach to pain management, combining various therapeutic modalities to address different aspects of pain. This might include physical therapy, medication management, interventional procedures, and psychological support. Interventional procedures involve the use of minimally invasive techniques to target and treat the source of pain directly. Whether it’s nerve blocks, epidural injections, or radiofrequency ablation. Pain management specialists will usually attempt non-invasive, non-surgical pain management techniques before performing an invasive surgical procedure.

By integrating these approaches, Restorative Pain Medicine Physicians aims to provide comprehensive care that goes beyond merely alleviating symptoms, focusing on improving overall function and quality of life. We believe that informed patients are empowered patients. That’s why we prioritize patient education as a cornerstone of our approach. Understanding the nature of your pain, the available treatment options, and the importance of self-care empowers you to actively participate in your pain management journey. Our team takes the time to explain each aspect of your treatment plan, ensuring you have the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about your health. At Restorative Pain Medicine Physicians, our mission is not just to relieve pain but to empower you on your journey to lasting relief.

Managing chronic pain in the summer requires a proactive approach to cope with the impact of heat. Here are some other strategies to beat the heat and help manage pain during the warmer months:

Go out for a swim

Minimal cardio, such as water activities, is beneficial to people with arthritis or chronic joint discomfort. Swimming, for instance, is a terrific approach to relieve joint pain and cool down during the heat. We are fortunate to have some of the best beaches in our area. It is best to plan your swim for the cooler parts of the day. Avoid midday heat when possible.Also, check with your insurance to see if they offer discounts to join the YMCA or a local gym with an indoor pool.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Maintaining electrolyte levels and fluids by drinking water and keeping hydrated is critical to avoiding pain or migraines caused by dehydration. Dehydration can also worsen fatigue and accelerate crashes. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Get an immunity boost

Fresh vegetables not only increase your body’s vitamins but also supplement you with minerals, antioxidants, and other immunity-boosting reserves. Luckily, with all the different fresh produce available during the summer, it should be easy to access an anti-inflammatory diet should be simple. Cherries, for instance, are a summer fruit that can help those with chronic pain.

Wear light clothing

Tight clothes with heavy fabrics are a no-no during summer. They don’t allow for the evaporation of sweat, which is what cools the body. Instead, you want to stick to light clothes and linen, especially during a chronic pain attack.

Prioritize Sun Protection

Excessive sun exposure can have negative effects on the skin and aggravate pain conditions. Use sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and opt for lightweight, breathable clothing. Shade is your friend.

Vary Your Activities

Engaging in regular physical activity is important for managing pain, but it’s essential to choose exercises suitable for summer months. Mix high- and low-effort tasks to prevent burnout. Switching between activities can help manage energy levels more effectively. Explore low-impact activities like yoga, gardening, picnics in shaded areas or mall walking.

Bottom-line

Managing pain during the summer months requires a proactive approach. By staying hydrated, adjusting activity levels, utilizing heat and cold therapy, exploring mind-body techniques, and consulting with your pain management specialist, individuals can enjoy a more comfortable summer. Remember, every person’s pain experience is unique, so it’s essential to find the strategies that work best for you. Embrace the season with these tips in mind, and make the most of your summer activities!

Don’t let chronic pain dampen your summer spirits. With a little planning and a lot of self-awareness, you can still enjoy all that summer has to offer-even while managing chronic symptoms