If you’re one of the 50 million Americans who deal with chronic pain on a daily basis, you might be concerned that the pandemic will interrupt your normal pain management routine. With stores and restaurants closed, it can be easy to think that your doctors, specialists, and caregivers have closed up shop as well.

The exact opposite is true.

At Berkower Pain and Spine Rehabilitation, we’ve found a balance between maintaining the safety of our patients and staff while still delivering quality care. Dr. David Berkower and his experienced staff are dedicated to maintaining your regular pain management care without comprising your health and wellbeing.  Here’s what you need to know about your pain management during the crisis.

Your condition and COVID-19

There’s no direct link between chronic pain conditions and a higher risk for contracting COVID-19, however, if you take a certain medication that affects your immune system, you might be more susceptible to the virus.

Those with pain conditions can be more likely to develop depression or anxiety. These emotional and psychological issues can cause you to withdraw even further into isolation. It’s important that you stay in frequent communication with our staff and make sure you have all you necessary medications especially if you’re required to quarantine for an extended period of time.

In-office precautions

Per recommendations set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we’re doing everything we can to protect you and our staff. That includes implementing social distancing and limiting the number of patients in our office.

We ask that you call ahead to schedule an appointment rather than dropping in to request care, especially if you’ve been exposed to the virus or have developed symptoms.

Telehealth services

Although telehealth isn’t a new facet of modern medicine, it has certainly gained popularity during the pandemic.

Whether you’re suffering from low back pain or fibromyalgia, any disturbance in your care can leave you feeling miserable and in pain. Fortunately, you can still get the care you need.

For example, Dr. Berkower can refill or prescribe your prescriptions and walk you through at-home exercises and stretches that will help alleviate your worst symptoms.

You can get Dr. Berkower’s expert advice, evaluation, and care all from the comfort of your own home. We use the best in telemedicine software, Doxy.me. This platform allows you to have a virtual appointment at which time our experts can assess concerning issues, manage your medications, and monitor your progress. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer to get in touch with Dr. Berkower.

Whether you’re concerned about a new pain or need follow-up care for an existing condition, there’s no reason you should delay treatment or evaluation because of the current crisis.

It’s true that telehealth does come with some inherent limitations, and there are times when you require in-office care, but it’s important now more than ever to provide you with multiple options for care.

We encourage you to take advantage of our telehealth services if you’re concerned about your safety, live with a high-risk individual, or have contracted COVID-19 yourself.

Don’t delay your care for another moment. Call our friendly staff to schedule an in-office or virtual appointment today.