Best Pain Management Doctors in Norfolk

Introduction to Pain Management in Norfolk

Definition and scope of Pain Management

Pain Management is a specialized field of medicine dedicated to the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of various types of acute and chronic pain. In Norfolk, this medical specialty plays a significant role in improving the quality of life for many residents struggling with persistent pain conditions.

Pain Management specialists in Norfolk treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to chronic back pain, neck pain, arthritis, neuropathic pain, and headaches. These specialists employ a variety of techniques and treatments to help patients manage their pain effectively.

Importance of choosing the right Pain Management doctor

Selecting the appropriate Pain Management doctor in Norfolk is essential for achieving optimal pain relief and improving overall well-being. The right specialist can significantly enhance a patient's quality of life by developing personalized treatment plans and employing advanced techniques in pain management.

Specialized care in Pain Management offers numerous benefits, including access to the latest treatments, comprehensive pain assessments, and multidisciplinary approaches to pain relief. In Norfolk, patients have access to highly qualified specialists who can provide tailored care for complex and persistent pain conditions.

Overview of Pain Management services in Norfolk

Norfolk boasts a range of specialized Pain Management clinics and practitioners, offering residents access to comprehensive pain care services. These facilities are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to address various pain-related issues.

Pain Management services in Norfolk are well-integrated with local hospital systems, as evidenced by the affiliations of top specialists like Dr. Robert Spear with Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, and Sentara Leigh Hospital. This integration ensures coordinated care and access to a wide range of medical resources for pain patients in the area.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Norfolk

Factors to consider when choosing a Pain Management specialist

Qualifications and board certifications

• Review of medical education and training
• Importance of board certifications (e.g., American Board of Anesthesiology)

Experience and areas of expertise

• Specialization in specific pain conditions
• Years of practice in Pain Management

Patient reviews and ratings

• Importance of considering patient feedback
• How to interpret star ratings and review counts

Resources for finding Pain Management doctors in Norfolk

Online directories and review platforms

• Utilization of healthgrades.com and similar websites
• Accessing detailed doctor profiles and patient reviews

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Importance of seeking recommendations from trusted healthcare providers
• Coordinating care between primary physicians and pain specialists

Local medical associations and support groups

• Contacting Virginia Pain Society for recommendations
• Engaging with local chronic pain support groups for patient perspectives

Top-Ranked Pain Management Doctors in Norfolk

Dr. Robert Spear

Specialties and Expertise

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Pain Medicine
• Interventional Pain Medicine
• Sports Medicine Pain Management
• Spine Physiatry

Education and Experience

• University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (1992)
• Chief Resident at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital
• Family Practice/Internal Medicine at Norwalk Hospital/Yale University Medical Centre

Hospital Affiliations

• Sentara Princess Anne Hospital
• Sentara Norfolk General Hospital
• Sentara Leigh Hospital

Patient Feedback

• 3.2 star rating based on 15 reviews
• Contact: (757) 889-5681

Dr. Scott Lawson

Specialties

• Pain Medicine
• Anesthesiology

Certifications

• American Board of Anesthesiology

Additional Information

• No patient ratings available at this time
• Contact: (757) 953-9000

Dr. Mihir Patel

Specialties

• Pain Medicine
• Psychiatry

Education

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2012)

Certifications

• American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology

Additional Information

• No patient ratings available at this time
• Contact: (757) 317-0076

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Pain Management Doctor in Norfolk

Understanding different approaches to pain management

Interventional techniques

• Examples from Dr. Robert Spear's specialties: Interventional Pain Medicine, Interventional Spine Medicine

Medication management

• Importance of expertise in pharmacology, as seen in Dr. Scott Lawson's anesthesiology background

Integrative and holistic approaches

• Consideration of Dr. Mihir Patel's combined expertise in Pain Medicine and Psychiatry

Importance of communication and patient-doctor relationship

Discussing treatment goals and expectations

• Utilizing patient reviews and ratings when available, such as Dr. Robert Spear's 3.2-star rating

Continuity of care and follow-up

• Considering doctors' hospital affiliations, like Dr. Spear's connections to multiple Sentara hospitals

Insurance and accessibility considerations

Verifying insurance coverage and in-network status

• Contacting doctors' offices using provided phone numbers

Location and availability of appointments

• Noting the various hospital affiliations and office locations in Norfolk and surrounding areas