Patients often bond therapeutically to various members of the team. The consistency of treatment and the rapport that develops between team members and the patient is not only desirable, but should be encouraged because it will greatly enhance the patient's progress. Treatment of chronic pain must not only be intensive, as described above, but must also be time limited. Patients must develop a complete understanding of their problems, therapies and practice the skills they have learned. This is the only way long-standing benefits can help patients and allow them to return to function on an ongoing basis.
Chronic pain is a very complex problem.
Many treatment strategies have been developed, and no one single treatment is successful for every single patient. Treatment plans need to involve different specialists with different professional backgrounds. Constant and thorough communications about the patient, family, and treatment team is vital for optimal outcomes and for the long-term success in the management of chronic pain. Edgar L. Ross, M.D., is certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management. Dr. Ross has been a member of the medical staff of Meridia Suburban Hospital.