Pain Medicine

Pain Medicine specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of pain, using a team approach and a range of therapies to help improve comfort, function and quality of life.

Pain Medicine is a medical specialty focused on finding, treating, and managing both short-term and long-term pain to help you live better and do more of what matters to you. At TidalHealth, our team cares for people of all ages, whether you are facing pain after surgery, back and neck discomfort, nerve pain, headaches, or pain related to cancer or arthritis. We understand that pain can have many causes, and our goal is to help you find meaningful relief and make daily life easier.

Scope of Care
We provide comprehensive evaluations that use your medical history, a physical exam, and targeted tests such as imaging, nerve studies, or lab work to understand the cause of your pain. Our treatment options include:

  • Medications
  • Targeted injections and nerve blocks
  • Spinal cord stimulators and pain pumps
  • Physical and occupational therapy
  • Pain psychology
  • Guidance on lifestyle changes

Types of Patients We See

  • People with pain after an injury or surgery, whether the pain is new, persistent, or intermittent.
  • Individuals living with ongoing pain such as low back pain, osteoarthritis, or nerve pain.
  • Those dealing with cancer-related pain or pain from serious illnesses.
  • Patients with complex pain conditions who require a team-based approach.

Our Team Approach
Pain Medicine at TidalHealth uses an interdisciplinary, patient-centered approach. Your care team may include pain medicine doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical and occupational therapists, pain psychologists, pharmacists, and social workers. Together, we develop a personalized care plan that focuses on your needs and safety. We emphasize open communication, shared decision-making, and ongoing check-ins to ensure that your treatment plan works effectively for you.

What kinds of pain do Pain Medicine specialists treat?
Our specialists at TidalHealth care for a wide range of pain, including new pain after surgery, ongoing back or neck pain, nerve pain, headaches and facial pain, cancer-related pain, and complex regional pain syndrome. If other treatments have not been effective, we offer more options for finding relief.

When should I see a Pain Medicine specialist?
You may want to see a pain medicine specialist if your pain persists after trying treatments with your primary care provider or other specialists, if it affects your ability to perform daily activities or sleep, or if you need special procedures or implantable devices. Seeing our team early can help prevent pain from becoming a long-term issue.

What treatments might I be offered?
Every treatment plan is tailored specifically to you. Options may include medications (both non-opioid and, in some cases, carefully monitored opioid therapy), targeted injections, nerve blocks, physical therapy, behavioral therapy, complementary treatments like acupuncture or movement therapies, and implantable devices for pain that hasn't responded to other treatments. Our main goal is to reduce your pain, improve your function, and enhance your quality of life.

Are interventional procedures safe?
Many procedures are performed regularly and safely by trained specialists at TidalHealth. Risks depend on the specific procedure but may include infection, bleeding, temporary increases in pain, or nerve irritation. Your pain medicine specialist will explain the expected benefits, potential risks, and other options so you can make an informed decision.

Will I be prescribed opioids?
Opioids are one option, but our team uses them carefully, always considering the risks of dependence and side effects. We follow the latest safe prescribing guidelines and monitor their use closely, focusing on a variety of strategies to reduce or avoid opioid use whenever possible.

How should I prepare for my first appointment?
It's helpful to bring a list of your current medications (including doses), relevant medical records or imaging, a pain diary (if you have one), and notes about any treatments you’ve tried and their effectiveness. Please also share your treatment goals and how pain affects your daily life.

What can I expect long-term?
Many people find that a combination of therapies can reduce their pain and improve their ability to participate in daily activities. Managing chronic pain typically involves regular check-ins and may require adjustments to your plan as needed. Our team is here to support you with education, self-care tips, rehabilitation, and ongoing care to help you move forward.