Why Does My Pain Keep Coming Back?

Do I know what is driving my pain? Ask for a plain-language explanation: which tissues or joints are involved, and what in your day (sitting, lifting, training, sleep) may be adding to it. If you can't explain it back, ask again.

What have I already tried, and what happened? Bring a short list of treatments, exercises, and medications, and how each one affected you. Tell your provider what helped, what didn't, and what you stopped.

Does my plan include more than one tool? Ask whether it includes movement or exercise as well as hands-on care, and what you will do at home between visits.

How will we know it is working? Ask for something you can check, such as how far you can walk, how long you can sit, or how well you sleep, and when it will be re-checked. Ask what happens if it isn't improving.

When would you send me somewhere else? A good provider tells you when another specialist, imaging, or a different approach makes sense. Ask what would make them refer you out.

Get medical care right away if pain comes with: new weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, fever with back pain, unexplained weight loss, severe pain after a fall or accident, or chest pain or trouble breathing. For severe symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Want help working through these questions? Request your new patient consult. No commitment to care.

Askeland Chiropractic · 7511 Mourning Dove Rd., Suite 104, Raleigh, NC 27615 · (919) 841-0081

This checklist is general education, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Every patient is different, and results vary.