SLBMI
Headache and Pain Management Services>>
How We Can
Help
How
We Can Help: Medical
Evaluation
Comprehensive
assessment begins with a thorough history and medical
evaluation by William
D. Richardson, a physician who specializes in chronic
pain management. He develops an appropriate plan of
care for each client, oversees therapies and communicates
with primary care physicians. By incorporating medication,
physical therapy,
self-care strategies, exercise, diet, biofeedback-assisted
relaxation training and psychological counseling into
a healthy lifestyle, many pain symptoms can be more
effectively managed.
Some
clients need assistance dealing with undesired side-effects
of medication like rebound
symptoms, dependency and sometimes addiction. Regular
medical appointments are scheduled to monitor effectiveness
of various strategies and to adjust medications as needed.
Trigger-point injections and simple blocks can be done
at SLBMI when needed; other approaches may be recommended
after consultation. When appropriate, some patients
may be referred to outside specialists for specific
diagnostic tests, or more invasive procedures.
After
completing their assessment, our psychologists teach
strategies proven effective in the
management of chronic pain. Counseling provides an opportunity
to address personal issues and concerns which may complicate
the medical condition. The goals of this intervention
include improving coping strategies, and enhancing the
quality of life. Couples counseling is available, and
may be an integral part of some treatment plans.
Treatment Care Options
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