September is Pain Awareness Month

According to the National Institute of Health,  pain is cited as the most common reason Americans access the health care system. It is a leading cause of disability and it is a major contributor to health care costs. Osteopathic Physician Chad Owens recently shared some information about how he treats patients experiencing pain.  Dr. Owens specializes in Pain Management and has been practicing for more than a decade.  Patients come to him experiencing headaches, neck pain, shoulder injuries, carpal tunnel, back pain, hip and knee pain, muscle spasms or other nerve related issues.He said pain can be devastating and impact even the most basic tasks.  “The key to properly diagnosing and treating pain is to recognize that each patient is unique and the circumstances and contributing factors are different for everyone. Pain can interfere with sleep, social and personal interactions, and the ability to work. Left untreated pain can also lead to depression.”Dr. Owens has a large arsenal of techniques and procedures to treat pain.  He’s even included information and video illustrations of these techniques on his website www.enidpain.com. “We use the latest diagnostic modalities to identify pain, and then employ a regimen of analgesic and interventional techniques to relieve the pain.”  Dr. Owens said. “Physical therapy can also be used to treat pain.”There are common misconceptions about pain and when to seek treatment.  People often think that they just have to “live with the pain” or they are afraid to seek treatment because they think they will be prescribed something addictive.  Sometimes they perceive that seeking treatment is a sign of weakness. Other times, someone will try and self-treat pain and make their condition worse.Dr. Owens said if someone is experiencing long-term pain, even if it’s minor, it’s wise to seek treatment from a specialist.