🌿 Tuesday Health & Wellness

When You’re in Pain and Waiting for the Doctor to Call Back

This blog came to me after talking to the same patient several days in a row.

“Hi Susan… it’s Billy again.”

Then he laughs a little and says,

“Can you work another miracle for me?”

Billy is waiting to hear back from Dr.’s team, but they’re in clinic seeing patients.

And while he waits, the pain is still there.

This happens more often than people realize.

Patients call because they are hurting, and they are hoping someone can help right away. But the truth is that doctors are often in clinic, surgery, or reviewing cases, and sometimes it takes time to respond.

So Billy and I talked about what he could do in the meantime to help manage the pain while waiting for the doctor to call back.

That conversation reminded me how many patients ask the same question:

“What can I do while I’m waiting?”

So today’s Health & Wellness is for patients like Billy—and for anyone waiting for guidance from their doctor while dealing with pain.

One thing I see often while working in a medical office is how hard it can be for patients—especially elderly patients—to manage pain while waiting for a call back or an appointment.

Many people assume a doctor can immediately prescribe pain medication, but the truth is more complicated.

Not all doctors are licensed to prescribe certain pain medications, and surgeons often cannot prescribe strong pain medications until after surgery, and even then it is usually only for a short period of time.

Your Primary Care Provider (PCP) is usually the best place to start when managing ongoing pain.

But what can you do while you’re waiting?

Here are some gentle tips that may help ease discomfort while you wait to speak with your healthcare provider.

🌻 Helpful Tips While Waiting for Medical Guidance

1. Contact Your Primary Care Provider First

Your PCP understands your medical history and medications. They are often the best doctor to help manage pain while you are waiting to see a specialist or surgeon.

2. Use Heat or Cold Therapy

Depending on the type of pain, heat or cold packs can help reduce discomfort.

• Heat can relax tight muscles and stiffness

• Cold packs can reduce inflammation and swelling

Always protect your skin with a towel and limit use to about 15–20 minutes at a time.

3. Gentle Movement

If your doctor has not told you to restrict movement, gentle stretching or slow walking may help reduce stiffness and improve circulation.

Remaining completely still can sometimes make pain worse.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief (When Approved by Your Doctor)

Some patients may be able to use medications such as acetaminophen or other over-the-counter options. However, always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist first, especially if you have other medical conditions or take multiple medications.

5. Ask About Anti-Anxiety Medication

Pain and anxiety often go hand in hand. Sometimes doctors may prescribe medication that helps reduce anxiety, which can also help the body relax and reduce the feeling of pain.

This is something you can discuss with your doctor.

6. Use Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, calming music, meditation, or prayer can help calm the nervous system. When the body relaxes, pain can sometimes feel more manageable.

7. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Dehydration and poor nutrition can make pain feel worse. Drink water and eat small healthy meals if possible.

8. Keep a Pain Journal

Write down:

• when the pain started

• what makes it worse or better

• where the pain is located

• how intense it feels

This information can be very helpful for your doctor.

🌻 A Gentle Reminder

Pain is real, and waiting for help can be frustrating. If your pain becomes severe, worsens quickly, or feels like a medical emergency, please seek urgent medical care.

You deserve to be heard and cared for.

Sometimes patience is part of the medical process, but there are still ways to support your body while you wait.

— Lady Flava