30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- According to a recent study by Kaiser Permanente, many chronic pain patients don’t inform their physicians of alternative therapies used to manage their pain.
- Although patients are not required to disclose this information to their provider, its important patients do so in order to prevent mismanaged care.
- The pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center explain why patients should talk to their SWSP physician about seeking alternative pain treatments.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found more than 50 percent of chronic pain patients’ use either acupuncture or chiropractic treatment to manage pain. It’s perfectly normal for patients to consider alternative therapies for pain. After all, blending alternative therapies with interventional pain management and behavioral health could provide physical, mental and emotional health and wellness benefits.
However, when the primary care provider, or in this case, the pain management physician is made unaware of alternative treatments being sought, problems are likely to arise. The study reported 35 percent of patients who had acupuncture and 42 percent of patients who underwent chiropractic care did not disclose that information to their physician. A representative of the study speculated patients might fear their physician’s disapprove of these therapies.
Although understandable, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center want to assure patients there is no need to be fearful of physician disapproval. In fact, the team at SWSP welcomes questions about various pain management treatment options. If you are contemplating alternative therapies for pain relief, talk to your SWSP physician. He or she would be happy to provide guidance and advice on pain therapies that may be beneficial for you!
Moreover, the team may be able to point you in the right direction in regards to where and with whom you can receive these treatments. Communication is key when it comes to continuity of care, and the physicians want to make sure you’re receiving the best treatment possible. Nevertheless, if you’re nervous about what to say, try bringing in a list of questions to your next appointment. That way, you can take notes and jot down places or people to see for alternative pain treatment.
The bottom line is, don’t be afraid to communicate your needs to a SWSP physician. We’re here to help you in any way possible! We also want to do right by you and provide treatment options that may improve your pain symptoms. Call a Southwest Spine and Pain Center today to schedule an appointment with one of our team members to discuss possible alternative therapies.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With multiple locations across the state of Utah, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.