PAIN CONSULTATION
What is a Pain Consultation?
A pain consultation is a specialized medical evaluation focused on understanding, diagnosing, and managing chronic or complex pain conditions. It involves a thorough review of the patient’s pain history, medical background, lifestyle, and previous treatments. The goal is to create a personalized pain management plan that improves function, reduces discomfort, and enhances overall quality of life.
Pain consultations are typically conducted by pain management specialists, who may be trained in anesthesiology, neurology, or physical medicine.
Pain Consultation In Kenya
Pain Consultation Treatment Options
After the consultation and assessment, a tailored treatment plan may include:
Medications:
Anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, or muscle relaxants
Neuropathic pain medications (e.g., pregabalin, duloxetine)
Antidepressants or anti-seizure medications (for chronic pain)
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Nerve blocks or trigger point injections
Minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation
Lifestyle modification and ergonomic advice
Counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Referrals to other specialists (e.g., orthopedic, neurology, rheumatology)
Symptoms That Warrant a Pain Consultation
You may need a pain consultation if you experience:
Persistent pain lasting more than 3 months
Pain not responding to conventional treatments
Complex pain conditions (e.g., nerve pain, fibromyalgia)
Pain following surgery or injury
Back or joint pain that limits daily activity
Recurrent headaches or migraines
Cancer-related pain
Pain accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness
Pain Consultation In Kenya
Conditions Commonly Addressed in Pain Consultations
Chronic back or neck pain
Neuropathic pain (nerve pain)
Arthritis and joint disorders
Fibromyalgia
Cancer pain
Headaches and migraines
Post-surgical pain
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Pelvic pain
How a Pain Consultation is Performed
The process usually includes:
Comprehensive patient history and review of previous medical records
Physical examination to assess the pain area and function
Pain scoring and mapping to understand intensity and patterns
Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scan) – if needed
Diagnostic injections to identify the pain source
Psychological evaluation, if pain is affecting mental health
Discussion of lifestyle factors and daily limitations
Risks of Not Seeking a Pain Consultation
Without expert evaluation and proper pain management, risks may include:
Progression to chronic, disabling pain
Dependence on over-the-counter or opioid medications
Reduced mobility and physical function
Increased emotional distress (depression, anxiety, irritability)
Disruption of work, relationships, and social life
Poor sleep and fatigue
Undiagnosed underlying medical conditions
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you have questions, need more information, or are ready to schedule a consultation, our team is just a message away. Let’s talk about how we can support your journey to better health through expert laparoscopic care.