This list of questions is a good starting point for discussion with your doctor. However, it is not a comprehensive list.

• Have you treated others with the type of pain I have?
  
  
• Do you think I need more evaluation to determine what is causing my pain and whether there is any effective treatment?
  
  
• Do I need to see a specialist for my pain?
  
  
• What are the options for treating my pain?
  
  
• Do you ever recommend alternative therapies (acupuncture, massage, hypnosis, herbal remedies), either alone or in combination with prescription medications?
  
  
• What kind of medications work best for this type of pain?
  
  
• Do pain medications cause side effects?
  
  
• Should I take other medication to manage the side effects of my pain therapy?
  
  
• Will I become addicted to pain medication?
  
  
• Can I take nonprescription pain relievers in addition to prescription pain drugs?
  
  
• Besides taking medicine, what else can I do to manage my pain?
  
  
• What level of pain relief I can expect?
  
  
• What can I do to relax and cope with pain? (Pain may feel worse if you are stressed, depressed or anxious.)
  
  
• Where can I go for support?
  
  
• What should I do if I have a pain crisis or emergency?
  
  
• Will following a particular diet make me feel better?
  
  
• Are there any clinical trials of new treatments for chronic pain?