Medical practitioners refer to pain management guidelines when making decisions about pain relief treatments. Through medical training and patient education, doctors and pain management specialists can then help those who suffer from chronic or acute pain to understanding the many treatments that are available.
Pain management guidelines cover both physical and psychological criteria. In addition to learning about human physiology and the anatomy of pain pathways, therapists study the emotional response to acute and chronic pain. Stress, depression, avoidance, and fear should be considered in any comprehensive pain management analysis.
Medical training and patient education also covers physical and cognitive strategies for coping with moderate to severe pain along with minor discomfort. By understanding published pain management guidelines, physicians and physical therapists can help their patients to live happier, healthier, more productive lives.
