Dr. Jordan Sudberg on 4 Telltale Signs It’s Time to See a Pain Management Specialist

Pain is something we all experience from time to time. But when discomfort becomes a constant companion, it may be more than just a passing ache—it could be a sign that you need professional help. According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a nationally recognized pain management specialist, knowing when to seek targeted pain management is critical for long-term health and well-being.

“Pain that disrupts your life isn’t normal,” says Dr. Sudberg. “Many patients wait too long, thinking it will go away. But early intervention often prevents long-term disability and improves quality of life.”

If you’re unsure whether your pain warrants specialized care, here are four clear signs, according to Dr. Sudberg, that it’s time to see a pain management expert.

1. Your Pain Has Lasted Longer Than 12 Weeks

Acute pain—like a pulled muscle or sprained ankle—usually subsides within a few days or weeks. However, if your discomfort has lingered for more than 12 weeks, it may be classified as chronic pain.

“Chronic pain often signals an underlying issue that the body isn’t resolving on its own,” Dr. Sudberg explains. “That’s when professional treatment becomes essential.”

Chronic pain doesn’t always have a visible source, which can be frustrating. You might have recovered from surgery or an injury, but the pain persists. This is where pain management steps in—not just to treat the pain, but to explore its root cause through advanced diagnostics and a comprehensive care plan.

2. Your Pain Is Interfering With Daily Activities

When pain begins to alter your routine—whether it’s avoiding stairs, skipping social events, or struggling to focus at work—it’s time to pay attention.

“If pain is dictating your life, it’s already affecting your mental and emotional health, not just your physical state,” says Dr. Sudberg.

Pain management specialists help restore functionality through multidisciplinary approaches like physical therapy, interventional procedures, and behavioral therapies. The goal? To help you live a full, active life without being ruled by pain.

3. You’re Relying Heavily on Medications for Relief

Over-the-counter pain medications can be helpful in moderation. But when you find yourself taking pills daily or increasing dosages just to get through the day, it’s a red flag.

“Medication should never be your only strategy,” warns Dr. Sudberg. “Pain management offers alternatives that address the source of the pain—not just the symptoms.”

Dr. Sudberg’s practice focuses on non-opioid solutions wherever possible. These may include injection therapies, regenerative medicine, nerve blocks, or even lifestyle interventions tailored to your condition and goals. Medication can play a role, but it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle.

4. You’ve Seen Multiple Providers Without Lasting Relief

Have you bounced from primary care doctors to chiropractors to orthopedic specialists, only to be told, “Just give it more time”? If so, you’re not alone—and you may be an ideal candidate for pain management.

“Pain management bridges the gap between diagnosis and real relief,” says Dr. Sudberg. “We dig deeper, using advanced imaging, nerve testing, and functional assessments to understand what’s going on beneath the surface.”

Pain management specialists coordinate with your existing providers to offer a more holistic and personalized treatment plan. This often includes multidisciplinary care teams that focus on both physical and emotional healing.

What to Expect When You See a Pain Specialist

Patients are often unsure what happens during a pain management appointment. Dr. Sudberg emphasizes that it’s not just about prescribing medications.

Instead, expect:

• A full review of your medical history 
• Comprehensive physical and neurological exams 
• Customized treatment planning based on your goals and lifestyle 
• Discussions around therapy options, which may include physical therapy, image-guided injections, spinal procedures, or neuromodulation 

“It’s about getting your life back,” Dr. Sudberg affirms. “Pain doesn’t have to be permanent.”

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for Pain to Define You

Living with pain isn’t something you have to tolerate. If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, reaching out to a pain management specialist like Dr. Jordan Sudberg could be your first step toward a healthier, more active life.

“Pain is real, but so is recovery,” Dr. Sudberg reminds us. “And with the right approach, we can get you there.”