Pain Management

Chronic pain is, most simply put, pain that persists after traditional, curative medical treatments have been exhausted, and after a normal expected healing period of three to six months. Chronic pain sometimes results from work-related injuries such as spinal disc problems, soft-tissue pain syndromes, and carpal tunnel syndrome; it can also result from post-trauma or surgery complications such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or failed back syndrome. Oftentimes the most troubling aspect of the chronic pain is not the pain itself but, rather, an overall downward spiral in functioning characterized by sleep disturbance, declining physical capacities and functioning, inability to work, financial distress, feelings of stress and depression, and an insidious breaking down of coping mechanisms and worsening of pain. There is hope for patients with chronic pain, however, provided they get the help they need to reverse this downward spiral.

Once all appropriate, traditional medical interventions have been exhausted, the most effective treatment for chronic pain consists of a rehabilitation approach designed to help the patient reclaim his or her life, restore functional abilities, and return to work or begin vocational rehabilitation if possible. Rehabilitation approaches utilized include:

Medical Evaluation and Monitoring
Physical Therapy
Summary of Functional Capacities
Individual and Group Psychological Services and Education
Relaxation Therapy and Stress Management
Biofeedback Therapy
Individual and Group Vocational Services and Education
Treatment Coordination and Case Management