PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – The most common form of pain among Americans is in the lower back, but Dr. Gary Saff, an interventional pain management specialist, said resolving that pain doesn't necessarily require addictive medication or risky surgery.
"The first thing we need to always do is complete an appropriate patient evaluation," said Saff. "That includes a careful history, physical exam and radiologic evaluation, such as MRI scan if necessary."
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From there, Saff determines the best treatment approach.
"I don't prescibe narcotics or perform surgery. I look for ways through physical therapy and things like heat, cold or electrical stimulation, to help ease the pain," said Saff.
Saff said narcotics are helpful for acute pain that comes on suddenly and is crippling, but extended use is the problem.
"It's this extended use that can lead to addiction," said Saff. "It's important to consider the non-narcotic medications on the market that can help with many forms of pain."
Another common form of pain is in the knees and joints.
"In cases like this, nutritional supplements may be useful," said Saff. "Glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to be beneficial in easing the pain in mild to moderate problems. More serious injury or damage to the cartilage of the knee may require surgery."
Saff has written to books on pain -- one for adults, another for children. To learn more, click here .