Help finding dr

[Lyzard22]

I am a veteran and have had chronic hip and back pain for about 7 years. My VA doc won't give me any pain meds and took me off Tylenol 3 because it wasn't strong enough, but won't put me on anything else or treat my issues. How would I go about finding a doc who's not afraid of meds? My pain has gotten to the point I can't work, find myself staying in be because walking, standing or sitting is too painful and can't even have normal sex. Anyway if anyone knows how to find a decent doc let me know please. Thanks

 

[Raysu]

You will want to find a local pain management doctor, most these days require a referral from your primary doctor but call and ask first if you like. Some may not take your insurance so you'd need to get details on paying out of pocket. Also referrals are sometimes accepted from specialists. For example physiatrists, rheumatologists, orthopedics, etc. When you call pain management they will give you specifics for their practice as well as if they are accepting new patients. Be prepared to wait as new patient appointments may take a while.

 

[MrRoot]

It sometimes seems like this while board is filled of veterans suffering from chronic pain.

Hi there and welcome to the board. I am too a veteran (and in pain) but from ISAF peacekeeping operation.

Best way to get proper pain management is to gather all medical documents on the issue and then go to your primary and have him to a referral to a pain management specialist. That way the doctor will be more comfortable when treating you as he has real knowledge on your issues.

 

[Man in the Dark]

Welcome to BL. I am also a veteran and I had to go to a private pain management specialists. Not a shady PM doc but an actual hospital or a University hospital. Make sure you bring your records and all MRI's and scans. They will properly treat you if legitamet.