Make a Pain Management Plan

Whether you have acute or chronic pain, following a pain management plan is the best and safest way to feel better. Your primary care provider (PCP) can work with you to create a pain management plan that meets your specific needs. 

Why it is important

Your pain management plan:

• Speeds your recovery so you will have less pain, feel better faster and get back to doing what you love sooner
  
• Helps you be healthier and happier: reducing your pain will help resolve any physical and emotional problems it may be causing
• Helps protect you from the dangers of opioid misuse, addiction and overdose  
• Shows your progress towards recovery and what types of treatment help the most so you can optimize their benefits
  
• Helps you and your providers work as team on your care
  

Your pain management plan may include:

• Your personal treatment goals 
• Strategies for achieving your goals 
• Ways to track your progress 
• A list of your medications and instructions on how to take them 
• A plan and timeline for easing you off of prescription opioids 
• The names of your doctors and referrals to specialists 
• Your treatments (such as physical therapy visits) and how often you need them
• Activities for you to do at home (such as exercise or ways to relax)
• Other treatment options for you to consider

Learn more about pain management