How to prepare for your upcoming pain assessment.

What is a pain assessment?

This is involves taking a full medical history / physical examination and history and assessment of your pain which includes pain questionnaires. There is time given to discuss a pain management plan i.e. what drug therapy / intervention/investigations may be required or what other health care professional service may be required etc.

What do I need to bring?

Please bring all investigations/reports/xrays /scans /blood results that you have. We encourage patients to bring a list of points they wish to discuss at the consult.

Can I bring a someone with me?

Absolutely. It is important to bring someone with you as support .

How long will it take?

The consult can take 2-3 hours especially if there is a lot to discuss. We support shared decision making between doctor and patient. So please allow sufficient time for your consult.

What happens after the consult?

This will vary depending on what therapies or the need to see other health care professional of our multidisciplinary team. But in general a follow up visit will be required.

What is a pain diary?

We encourage our patients to note a history of their pain. When it happens? what makes it worse better? when does it happen? how often etc. If you are unsure about this we can discuss and advise you at the consult but there are also various phone apps that can assist you with this.