Does a physical medicine and rehabilitation perform a pain management programme?

A rehabilitation physician may first review your pain pattern, strength, mobility, sleep, medicines and effect on work or home activities. The programme can then bring together physiotherapy, graded activity, pacing, posture or movement advice, and practical education about flare-ups. Some people may also need input from psychology, occupational therapy or another medical specialty. The aim is to improve useful movement and confidence while helping you manage pain in daily life; it is not limited to a procedure or a single appointment.

Take a clear record of where the pain occurs, what makes it better or worse, and which activities you want to regain. Bring a list of medicines and any reports you already have. During assessment, describe your sleep, mood and activity limits honestly. Ask how progress will be monitored and which home exercises or pacing steps are appropriate for your current ability.

Seek urgent assessment for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, rapidly worsening weakness, severe pain after a major injury, or pain with fever and feeling acutely unwell. Contact your treating team promptly if a planned exercise causes marked or persistent worsening, or if new symptoms appear.

Would a multidisciplinary pain management programme suit my symptoms and goals? Which clinician will coordinate it? What changes should I expect first, and how should I respond to a flare-up?