Pain Clinic
Pain Clinic
Everything you need to know
about UK Pain Clinics
Chronic pain affects 15.5 million people in England and more than 1.5 billion people worldwide live with chronic pain.
The majority of people who have it say it makes it difficult to sleep effectively at night and focus throughout the day. They also claim that it has an impact on their energy levels and love of life.
A pain clinic may be able to assist you if the pain is a regular part of your life.
What Is a Pain Clinic?
Pain management clinics, also known as pain management centres, are healthcare facilities that specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. There are two types of them. One concentrates on treatments for treating specific types of pain, such as neck and back pain.
The other frequently referred to as an interdisciplinary clinic, takes a holistic approach to health.
Frequently, your team will include:
- Doctors and nurses
- Psychologists
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational and vocational therapists
- Dietitians and nutritionists
These clinics can help you manage pain with physical, behavioural, and psychological therapy in addition to medication.
They may also educate you about your discomfort, provide lifestyle coaching, and provide complementary or alternative medicine. These can include the following:
- Alternative therapy
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Cognitive behavioural therapy
- Water therapy
- Massage
- Meditation
What’s the Goal?
It’s to alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life. A pain clinic can teach you how to manage your chronic pain on your own and improve your ability to function, maybe allowing you to return to work.
Do They Help?
According to several studies, those who receive treatment at pain management centres state that they experience less pain and emotional suffering. According to research, they can also perform their everyday tasks more efficiently.
How Do I Find a Pain Clinic?
Request a referral from your primary care physician or a specialist. Additionally, you can:
Visit the Pure Medical facility.
Get in touch with a local pain support organisation for assistance.
For a list of providers in each county, click here.
What Should I Look For?
Look for a clinic that has a specialist that is familiar with your type of pain. Inquire about the doctor’s unique training and certification in pain treatment.
You should try to select a doctor with whom you are comfortable, just as you would with any other. Your pain management professional will manage your pain while also coordinating other services such as physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and counselling.
A competent pain management programme will work with you and your family to develop a plan that is tailored to your specific needs. It will track your progress and provide you with feedback.
What should I ask?
Always enquire about the therapies and treatments that a facility provides. You may also enquire about whether or not they host support groups.
Enquire whether you may speak with other people who have had therapy there.
What Should I Avoid?
You should avoid pain clinics that primarily treat pain with opioids. These drugs have the potential to be extremely addictive. They may also interact with any medications you are currently taking.
The person, not just the pain, should be the emphasis of a pain clinic.