Chronic Pain Management - How a Multispecialty Approach Works (718) 769-2521
Chronic pain syndrome is a common problem but one that is complex. As a result, it presents many challenges to healthcare providers. Pain is considered chronic if it persists for longer than the average healing time appropriate for the tissues involved. It is a persistent and unpleasant sensation that can lead to major psychological and emotional problems and significantly affect quality of life. Today, it is widely recognized that a multidisciplinary approach works best for chronic pain management, including assessment of the condition. Collaborative Approach to Pain Treatment Many studies have found that complex pain, with its diverse effects, is better managed by a comprehensive approach that incorporates the knowledge and skills of specialists in different fields. In a multi-specialty healthcare center, providers in various disciplines work as a team to provide pain treatment to people of all age groups – children, adults and the elderly. The team will include neurologists, orthopedists, physical therapists, chiropractors, rehab specialists and medical doctors. Treatment will be comprehensive, holistic and patient-centered and also involve caregivers. Patient Evaluation Formulating appropriate interventions requires through patient assessment. Based on the presenting problem, the various team members will be involved at all stages of the evaluation - initial assessment, ongoing assessment throughout the treatment process, and at appropriate follow-up. This comprehensive evaluation will cover the patient’s self-report to understand the intensity pain and identify the causes of the condition through a medical and pain history, a medication assessment, a physical exam, and diagnostic tests, including lab tests, x-ray and MRI, if necessary. Individuals with cognitive impairments and limited ability to communicate will be assessed using observational methods, and other tools and strategies. Customized Treatment All the concerned team members will collaborate to develop a customized treatment plan for the patient. Patients, their caregivers, and other appropriate stakeholders will contribute to the development of the treatment plan and the outcome goals. As the treatment progresses, outcomes will be assessed to see if goals are being met. Typical goals include reduction of pain, better pain tolerance, improvement in physical and emotional performance, and patient satisfaction. In leading multispecialty centers in New York, pain treatment for a condition like low back pain involves a variety of non-invasive options. One main advantage of this approach is that each member of the team will target specific issues to promote the overall goals of pain management. For instance, the orthopedic specialist treats injuries and diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. To improve physical function and mobility, the orthopedist may refer the patient to the physical therapist whose focus would be on recommending appropriate exercises to increase body strength, flexibility, and endurance. The successful treatments in multispecialty health care centers are proof that this collaborative strategy works well to ease chronic pain and its detrimental effects. Recent studies point out that a multimodal strategy to manage common painful medical conditions could be the key to reducing opioid dependence.