Pain medication generally involves prescription of acetaminophen, NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, opiates and anti-depressants. R.I.C.E. - rest, ice, compression and elevation, as well as epidural injections are often used to treat back pain, and even anti-convulsants and Botox injections are being tried by pain doctors to try to alleviate suffering. Some patients with back pain will be offered surgery that may help if other treatments fail and particularly if patients lose control of bowel and bladder, signs that a disc is pressing on vital nerves.

Patients should seek out a pain clinic with professionals who keep up to date with new pain medication trials and cutting edge therapies. Pain doctors and support staff best help patients to reclaim pain-free living by employing a variety of methods, which may include acupuncture, biofeedback, hypnosis, electrical stimulation, nerve blocks, magnets, and more. The development of the right fit for the right patient is a delicate and ongoing balancing act as many chronic patients slowly deteriorate due to disease processes and need regular re-evaluations on course of treatment.
The best pain clinic offers caring and knowledgeable pain doctors and staff who offer support, encouragement and most importantly, relief from pain. Patients should educate themselves about their condition and potential pain management treatments and find one that best suits their needs.