Medical and technological advances have made pain more manageable today than ever before. However, in many instances pain goes untreated, undertreated or mistreated. Some patients believe that they must live with their pain. Others are afraid to request pain medications for fear of becoming addicted to them, even though this rarely occurs when medications are used properly.

In addition, many physicians have had little training in pain care and may be unaware or not fully informed of treatments that can help to relieve pain. When used properly under the close supervision of a physician, medications such as opioids can be used to treat pain without causing dependency and addiction.

It is important for patients to seek advice from a pain physician earlier in the course of the pain. Patients should not be embarrassed about their pain or afraid to voice their concerns out of fear of appearing weak or complaining. Pain that goes untreated may worsen other health problems, delay recovery and interfere with the healing process. Untreated pain worsens not only overall pain control but also the patient’s qualify of life. It is important that patients seek out proper care and not give up until they find an effective method of pain relief.