6 Reasons to See a Pain Management Specialist

Dr. Mingi Choi, M.D.

Physical pain is, unfortunately, something we all have to deal with from time to time. We can usually relieve common aches and pains with simple remedies like hot showers, ice packs, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers. But if your pain persists, or even worsens, then you should seriously consider making an appointment to see a pain management specialist. These physicians have special training in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of all different types of pain.

Here are 6 reasons you should see a pain management specialist:

You don’t know what’s causing your pain.
Sometimes you know exactly why you are experiencing pain. Perhaps you twisted your ankle while running or you recently had surgery. Other times, however, pain seems to appear from out of nowhere. You wake up one morning and your back, shoulder, or knees ache for no apparent reason. A pain specialist can pinpoint the exact cause of those “mystery aches and pains” and determine the best course of action to get you feeling better fast.
Your pain isn’t going away.
Even if you do know what caused your pain, you should expect to experience some pain relief within 3 months of the initial injury. If your pain hasn’t gone away or has gotten worse over time, then get in to see a pain specialist. Chronic pain can indicate a more serious underlying problem that requires more advanced treatments that only a physician can prescribe.
Your pain is interfering with your life.
Are you unable to work because of your pain? Are you unable to sit or stand for long periods of time because of pain? Are you not sleeping well? Are you skipping out on social events because you’re in too much pain to expend the energy? There’s no reason why pain should be limiting you in any way. Pain specialists are concerned with your entire quality of life. They want to treat your pain so that you can get back to work, exercise, family life, and doing all of the things you enjoy.
You start to feel down or depressed.
Chronic pain can take a significant toll on your emotional and mental health. Many chronic pain sufferers develop depression without even realizing it. If you’re feeling down or “blue” for 2 weeks or more, having trouble concentrating, sleeping too much or too little, or having thoughts of harming yourself, then you may have depression. Talk to a pain management specialist and/or a mental health professional right away if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.
Your pain may require advanced treatment options.
Each year, we see new advancements in pain management drugs, technologies, and techniques. You may require a combination of these therapies, or a single specific treatment may be the best course of action. A pain management physician is uniquely trained to use this new knowledge safely and effectively to treat your pain.
You may need to see other specialists as well.
Your pain management specialist may recommend physical therapy, psychological therapy, surgery, occupational therapy, nutritional counseling, and other treatments to ensure you get the most pain relief possible. Your doctor will help coordinate that care for you and remain in close contact with these specialists for the duration of your treatment.

If you’re experiencing pain that’s interfering with your quality of life, then make an appointment to see a pain specialist such as Dr. Mingi Choi of Somerset Orthopedic & Sports Medicine. Dr. Choi has more than 25 years of experience successful diagnosing and treating those who suffer from chronic pain. He is board-certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and a Fellow of American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

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New Jersey's Top Docs

Dr. James Parolie, M.D.

Specializing in Sports Medicine Injuries and Arthroscopic Surgery

Dr. Mingi Choi, M.D.

Specializing in Conservative and Interventional Treaments of Musculoskeletal and Spinal Disorders

For More Information or to Schedule an Appointment Contact Somerset Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Today!
Call 908-425-4990

Request an Appointment

6 Reasons to See a Pain Management Specialist

New Jersey's Top Docs

Dr. James Parolie, M.D.

Specializing in Sports Medicine Injuries and Arthroscopic Surgery

Dr. Mingi Choi, M.D.

Specializing in Conservative and Interventional Treaments of Musculoskeletal and Spinal Disorders

For More Information or to Schedule an Appointment Contact Somerset Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Today!
Call 908-425-4990

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