10 Questions

The easiest way to have a painless discussion about pain with your healthcare professional starts by asking questions. Here’s a suggested checklist you may adapt to your situation:

1. What cause(s) my pain?
2. Can my pain be cured or managed?
3. Is it normal to suffer this type of pain with this condition?
4. Are there common triggers for this type of pain? Should I avoid noise, heat, certain foods, or other situations?
5. Why does my pain seem worse at certain times of the day or during certain weather conditions?
6. What kinds of pain treatments are available and appropriate for me? What are the risks and side effects of each?
7. What about alternative treatments? Are there homeopathic or complementary treatments? What about acupuncture or biofeedback?
8. Will diet or exercise help alleviate my pain? Should I see a nutritionist or work with a physical or occupational therapist?
9. Should I see a pain specialist?
10. What resources are available to help me learn more about my type of pain and how to manage it?