FAQs

What does a pain management doctor do?

A pain management doctor diagnoses the source of acute and chronic pain and treats it with targeted, mostly non-surgical options such as image-guided injections, nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation, and medication management. At LA Pain Doctor, the goal is to reduce pain and restore function so you can return to work, family, and daily activities.

What conditions does LA Pain Doctor treat?

Our providers treat back pain, neck pain, sciatica, herniated and degenerative discs, spinal stenosis, arthritis, migraines, whiplash, nerve pain, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome, sports injuries, and work or auto accident injuries. You can browse the full list on our Services & Conditions page.

Do I need a referral to see a pain management specialist?

Many patients can schedule directly, but some insurance plans require a referral from a primary care doctor. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office and our team will check your plan’s requirements before your first visit.

Which office locations do you have?

LA Pain Doctor has offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, Louisiana, so patients across the Greater New Orleans area, the River Parishes, and the Northshore can find care close to home.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications, any recent imaging such as X-rays or MRIs, and records from previous treatments. Visit our New Patients page for more details.

What happens during my first visit?

Your provider will review your health history, discuss your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and review any imaging. From there, we create a personalized treatment plan and explain each option so you can make an informed decision.

Are pain management injections painful?

Most injections are performed with a local numbing medication and image guidance, and patients typically describe mild pressure or brief discomfort. Many procedures take less than 30 minutes, and most patients return home the same day.

How long does relief from an epidural steroid injection last?

Relief varies from person to person. Some patients feel better for several weeks, while others experience months of improvement. Injections are often combined with physical therapy and other treatments for longer-lasting results. Learn more about lumbar epidural steroid injections.

Do you only prescribe pain medication?

No. LA Pain Doctor focuses on interventional and non-surgical treatments first. When medication is part of a plan, it is prescribed and monitored carefully. Read more about our approach on the Pain Medications page.

Can you help if other treatments have not worked for me?

Yes. Many of our patients come to us after trying rest, over-the-counter medication, physical therapy, or treatment elsewhere without success. Advanced options like spinal cord stimulation and intrathecal pump therapy may help when other approaches fall short.

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation uses a small implanted device to send mild electrical signals that interrupt pain messages before they reach the brain. Patients first complete a spinal cord stimulator trial to confirm the therapy works for them.

Do you treat auto accident and work injuries?

Yes. We evaluate and treat whiplash, back and neck injuries, and other pain caused by car accidents and workplace injuries. Visit our Personal Injury page to learn more.

Is surgery ever necessary?

Most patients improve without surgery. If your condition requires a surgical evaluation, your provider will discuss it with you and coordinate a referral. Our focus is on the least invasive option that can provide meaningful relief.

Do you accept insurance?

LA Pain Doctor works with many insurance plans, including plans for personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to confirm your coverage before your appointment.

How soon can I get an appointment?

We work to see new patients as quickly as possible. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online, and our team will help you find the most convenient office and time.

Can I continue normal activities after a procedure?

Most patients can return to light activities within a day of an injection or nerve block. Your provider will give you specific instructions based on the procedure you receive and your overall health.

How do I know which treatment is right for me?

The right treatment depends on the cause of your pain, how long you have had it, and your health history. After a thorough evaluation, your provider will explain your options and recommend a plan designed around your goals.

Who are the providers at LA Pain Doctor?

Our team includes board-certified physicians and experienced nurse practitioners who specialize in pain management. You can meet them on our Providers page.