Pain Management Specialist

New York Pain Medicine

Pain and Sports Management Physicians & Physical Therapy located in Midtown East, New York, NY

If you have to live with acute or chronic pain, it can start to affect every area of your life. The experts at New York Pain Medicine won’t simply prescribe pain medication and send you on your way. Dr. Douglas Allen evaluates your condition thoroughly and provides a multifaceted treatment plan to tackle your pain from multiple perspectives. The physical therapist also incorporates rehabilitative therapies to help you reclaim your well being. Schedule an appointment at the Midtown East, New York clinic today by calling the front desk or using the online scheduling system.

Pain Management Q & A

 

What causes pain?

Pain varies widely from dull to severe, acute to chronic, and localized to radiating. The origin of pain could also come from a variety of places: muscles, joints, ligaments, nerves, and more.
Any number of incidents or conditions can cause pain, including:

  • Sports injury
  • Accident or fall
  • Pinched nerve
  • Repetitive strain
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Arthritis
  • Myofascial pain syndrome
  • Muscle cramp

It’s essential to receive a full evaluation from Dr. Allen to identify the cause of your pain.

How do you diagnose pain?

Dr. Allen begins by investigating the circumstances surrounding your pain. He asks a variety of questions about your health history, symptoms, and home treatments.
After recording your medical history, Dr. Allen performs a physical exam. He starts by taking your vital signs and then performs a series of assessments to check your range of motion, reflexes, strength, and other factors.
Dr. Allen may order further lab testing, if appropriate. Many times, he uses imaging tests to get a better picture of your body. He uses X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs as needed.
For some conditions, Dr. Allen might choose a nerve block to pinpoint the location of your pain or discography to identify spinal disc problems. Once Dr. Allen makes his diagnosis, he discusses the most effective treatment options for you.

Which pain management approaches do you take?

Dr. Allen creates a personalized pain management treatment plan for you, incorporating various in-office and at-home approaches to help you combat pain from multiple angles. Some of those approaches include medication, physical therapy, acupuncture, and trigger point injections.

Oral Medication

Dr. Allen always starts with over-the-counter medication first and transitions to prescription medication if necessary. Depending on your situation, he may suggest a muscle relaxer, anti-inflammatory drug, or pain reliever.

Physical Therapy

The physical therapist strives to improve the underlying musculoskeletal issues associated with your pain. He provides exercises, stretches, ergonomic training, and postural guidance to correct any imbalances that lead to pain.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice using long, thin needles to stimulate nerves, tissue, and muscles. The treatment seems to trigger the body’s natural painkillers.

Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections involve injecting tender trigger points, or knots, with a local anesthetic. The needle itself and the anesthetic deactivate the painful knots.

If you need help finding relief from your pain, contact the professionals at New York Pain Medicine online or over the phone.