Medication Management
What does this service entail? How does this work?
Medication management is designed to help patients safely and effectively manage pain using the lowest-risk options possible. Our approach begins with non-opioid medications and adjuvant therapies whenever appropriate, with opioids considered only when other treatments have not provided adequate relief.
We take a conservative and individualized approach, balancing the potential benefits of medication with the risks. Our goal is always to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life while ensuring patient safety. Medication management is often combined with interventional procedures, rehabilitation, or regenerative therapies to create a comprehensive, multi-faceted treatment plan.
Overview Area
Am I a candidate for this? (What are the general indications?)
You may be a candidate for medication management if your pain has not been adequately controlled with procedures, therapy, or other conservative treatments. Candidates often include patients with chronic spine or joint pain, nerve-related pain, or conditions that interfere with daily activities and quality of life.
Our team carefully evaluates each patient’s medical history, prior treatments, and current needs before recommending any medication pathway. For some, short-term use of pain medication may help bridge recovery; for others, long-term management may be appropriate but must be monitored closely. Opioids are only considered after other options have been explored, and always in the context of strict safety protocols.
What should I expect from this? (Preparation, the treatment itself, recovery time, potential side effects)
Before: Your provider will complete a detailed evaluation, review your history, and may order imaging or lab work. If opioids are considered, you will also discuss informed consent, risk factors, and monitoring requirements.
During: Medication management involves a customized plan that may include non-opioid pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve-stabilizing agents, muscle relaxants, or, in select cases, opioids. If opioids are prescribed, we utilize careful dosing, frequent monitoring, and ongoing risk assessment.
After: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor effectiveness, adjust dosages, and ensure safety. Patients are often encouraged to combine medications with physical therapy, procedures, or lifestyle strategies for the best outcomes.
Potential side effects: Side effects depend on the type of medication prescribed and may include drowsiness, constipation, stomach upset, or dizziness. With opioids, there are risks of dependence, tolerance, or misuse, which is why we use the most conservative dosing strategies possible and maintain close oversight.