Pain Management 101: When to self-treat, see your doctor or consult a pain specialist

Pain is many times a signal from our body that something isn’t quite right. Although occasional discomfort is normal and can often be self-managed, persistent or severe pain can significantly affect your quality of life. 

Knowing when to treat pain yourself vs. seeing your primary care provider or a pain management specialist is essential to effectively manage pain and address underlying causes. 

When to self-treat pain? 

Self-treatment can be a practical first step in managing mild or moderate pain and discomfort. Pain, such as muscle soreness, mild headaches or injuries like strains or bruises, can be treated with over the counter (OTC) pain relievers, heat/cold therapy, topical creams or rest. 

Typically, mild pain should subside quickly. If your pain persists for longer than a few weeks, gets worse or is accompanied by other symptoms, self-treatment may not be enough. 

When to see a doctor? 

While self-treatment can be effective, there are many instances when it’s important to visit your primary care provider (PCP). Consider seeing a healthcare provider if you have: 

• Persistent pain that lasts longer than a few weeks or reoccurs despite self-treatment measures like OTC pain medication, heat/ice and rest. 

• Severe pain that interferes with your daily activities, sleep, or quality of life. 

• Unexplained or unusual pain with no obvious cause. 

• Changes in existing pain, such as increased intensity or frequency. 

Your primary care provider can address your concerns or questions, assess your symptoms, and if needed, diagnose and treat your pain. Your primary care provider will also refer you to a pain management specialist if necessary. 

When to see a pain management specialist? 

In some cases, managing chronic or complex pain requires help from a pain specialist. Pain management specialists offer multiple treatment options not typically offered by your PCP and will work with you to develop a personalized care plan suited for your unique needs. 

Your primary care provider will likely refer you to a specialist if you have chronic pain. Chronic pain is persistent pain that typically lasts beyond three to six months. This type of pain may be caused by accidental tissue injury or inflammation or can be caused by anatomical changes to your spine that compress, pinch, or irritate nerves.