Behavioral Pain Management

Behavioral Pain Management

woman holding her back and shoulder in pain

Overview

BPM is an organized treatment program for patients suffering from chronic pain. Chronic pain is a disease of multiple causes. The emotional toll of chronic pain also can make pain worse. Anxiety, stress, depression, anger, and fatigue interact in complex ways with chronic pain and may decrease the body's production of natural painkillers; moreover, such negative feelings may increase the level of substances that amplify sensations of pain, causing a vicious cycle of pain for the person. Even the body's most basic defenses may be compromised: There is considerable evidence that unrelenting pain can suppress the immune system. 

Because of the mind-body links associated with chronic pain, effective treatment requires addressing psychological as well as physical aspects of the condition.

The features of chronic pain are known as the five “D"s of chronic pain. These are as follows: 

1. Drugs (too many) 
2. Doctors (more than three) 
3. Depression 
4. Disability 
5. Dysfunction 

Chronic pain usually leads to pre­scription drug addiction.

The aim of the Program is physical and mental rehabilitation, and pain control skills training to enable the patient to pursue a normal life free of addictive and deteriorating pain killers.

The Program

The BPM program is a multidisciplinary medical service provided by many specialists from different fields under direction of the Pain Specialist. The program consists of two phases:

Evaluation

Evaluation starts with the review of all submitted previous medical records and x-rays. A thorough assessment of the patient's medical history and pain evaluation is made by the Medical Director. Other medical specialists might be consulted as needed. This extensive medical evaluation results in the clinical diagnosis and a pain management plan.

Management

Pain management consists of many components that are selected according to the needs of the patient. These may include: 

• Detox from Addictive Pain Killers and Prescription Drugs 
• Physical Rehabilitation 
• Training in Managing the Activities of Daily Living 
• Pain Control Techniques Training 
• Individual and Group Health Counseling 
• Family Therapy 
• Vocational Rehabilitation 
• Behavioral and Medication Treatments for Depression and other Emotional and Mental Complication of Chronic Pain and Suffering

All services are outpatient. Under unusual circumstances, including high doses of pain killers and other addictive prescription drugs, the patient might be hospitalized for a short period. The inpatient services are provided at West Florida Hospital.

To Make an Appointment

A referral is not necessary, but preferred. Bring your medical records and x-rays with you to your first visit. 

For an appointment and to obtain specific information regarding financial arrangements, please call (850)-360-4147 or send an inquiry to [email protected]. 

We use cookies to enhance your experience and improve our services and our website’s functionality. By continuing to use our website, including remaining on the landing page, you consent to our use of cookies.