Cost of Chronic Pain

How Much Does Pain Management Cost?

Pain Management Cost Breakdown

Unlike acute pain, which lasts for a little while, chronic pain can persist for months or years. It can be a constant pain, a recurring pain, or pain that seems to migrate around the body. According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine[1] , it can be triggered by an injury or infection, or an ongoing cause such as cancer, but sometimes occurs even without evidence of bodily damage. Common complaints include migraines, back pain and arthritis pain. Most patients will undergo a lengthy process of trial and error before finding the right treatment and some may only ever experience partial or temporary relief.

Typical costs:

For mild, shorter-term pain, a doctor may recommend over-the-counter drugs such as Acetaminophen[2] and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen[3] which cost about $5-$25, depending on the quantity and whether the patient buys a name brand or its generic equivalent.
Prescription medications for ongoing, severe pain can include anticonvulsants[4] , such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), $53 for 30, 100 mg capsules at drugstore.com; antidepressants[5] like Amitriptyline, $12 for 30, 10 mg tablets; and opiate pain relievers[6] , like hydrocodone (Norco, Vicodin), $18 for 30, 325 mg tablets.
A physician may refer a patient to a pain center[7] , in which a team of health professionals create a treatment plan, typically incorporating different disciplines. According to Marketdata Enterprises, a market-research firm, the average cost of a pain program is $4,873. Fees are based on the procedures involved and complexity of the problem. At Florida Medical Pain Relief Center[8] the initial consultation is $225, but required monthly office visit costs $195 each, and additional treatments may be needed. Many health plans will at least partly cover treatment at pain centers, but usually after conventional methods, such as drug treatment, have failed, among other restrictions.
According to the book Chronic Pain Management[9] , after medication, surgery is the most common treatment for persistent pain. For example, 31,000 lumbar surgeries are performed each year primarily to alleviate pain, at an estimated cost of $27,577 per patient. For insured patients, out-of-pocket costs for surgery typically consist of a specialist copay, possibly a hospital copay of $100 or more, and coinsurance of 10% to 50%.
Devices used to fight chronic pain range in cost. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators[10] , battery-operated units connected to the skin that emit electrical impulses to block pain signals , typically cost $100 or more. Surgically implanted devices that deliver medication and are usually considered an option only when other methods fail, typically cost $27, 577 -$55,134, according to Chronic Pain Management[11] . Many health insurers cover these treatments but only if patients meet certain criteria.
Physical Therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy may help patients cope with symptoms. For uninsured patients, physical therapy typically costs $50 -$350 or more per session, while a one-hour session of cognitive behavioral therapy typically starts at $125 and can cost more than $250. For insured patients, out-of-pocket costs for these therapies typically include a copay of $10 -$75 per session or coinsurance of 10%-50% or more.

Additional costs:

Many chronic pain sufferers try acupuncture for relief. Though it's considered promising, research[12] , on its efficacy has been inconclusive. Acupuncture typically costs $75 to $95 for an initial visit.
Massage Therapy is another common method for pain relief from chronic non-malignant pain[13]. A massage can range in cost from $50 to $125 per hour depending on where you live. Deep tissue, rolfing, myofacial release, and sports massages can all increase the cost.
Yoga classes are often sought after by those in pain, because it focuses on the physical body, reducing stress and your breath. The cost of a single class can cost between $7 and $20. The cost of an unlimited monthly membership to a yoga studio can cost between $50 and $150, depending on where you live.
Health clubs and gym memberships can help people suffering from chronic pain to find stability and strength. Memberships can cost between $25 and $75 per month depending on where you live.

Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.

External Resources:

Much of the iformation on this page was borrowed from https://health.costhelper.com/pain-doctor.html