Pain Management can be handled in many different ways.

 

Opioids are drugs that help relieve chronic and acute pain. Hydrocodone, Norco, Lortab, Oxycodone, Percocet and Morphine are just some of the recognizable names of pain medications.

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These are controlled substances and require more oversight by medical care providers and the patients who take them. Part of all pain managment programs require contracts for care by the provider and use guidelines for the patient. Random drug screens and pill counts are done with same day notice. Failure to make the appointment can result in being discharged from the practice

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Risk Factors: People more at risk for abusing opioids include those who have had previous substance or alcohol abuse issues, depression, anxiety, and people who have used opioids at the same time as tranquilizers. In recent years there has been a significant rise in opioid deaths due to accidental overdose, abuse, and misuse of these medications. This has prompted the CDC to publish guidelines and states to pass new legislation regarding these medications. Dr. Hernandez Drozdowicz takes these guidelines very seriously.

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History: An extensive history is very important and is the reason for the prolonged initial visit.

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Physical Exam: Every patient’s pain experience is unique. Therefore, the physical exam and decision to prescribe opioids can vary.

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Rehab Management: An effective pain management program is based on a partnership of  quality patient-physician communication. If the patient feels the opioid is not helping, he or she must tell the physician so a better solution can be found, instead of taking more medication.