What Is Spoon Theory?
The spoon theory explains the impact of living with chronic illness, chronic pain, and disability on a daily basis. It highlights the differences between living with illness compared to living without illness.
If you’ve been suffering from chronic pain, trying to get an accurate diagnosis can be frustrating. That’s why it’s important to have a healthy partnership with your health care provider during every stage of that journey.
As a pain specialist in West Islip, Islandia, and Smithtown, New York, Dr. Eric K. Fanaee uses a holistic approach to help his patients get to the bottom of their chronic pain and find treatments to manage their condition.
Uncovering the root cause of your pain can make a huge difference in your quality of life. While it can be difficult to find the source of your pain, a strong patient-provider relationship can make it easier for a number of reasons.
Many times, providers end up treating just the symptom — your pain. However, pain does not usually occur without some medical cause or condition preceding it. The best way to eliminate your pain is to diagnose and address what’s causing it.
While it can be difficult for people with chronic pain to live without a clear diagnosis of the underlying causes for their pain, it’s important to continue exploring possible diagnostic options. Some people eventually receive a diagnosis of chronic pain syndrome (CPS) when no other cause can be identified.
Whatever the cause of your pain, you deserve to have a provider who’s willing to explore all possible avenues when it comes to understanding the root causes and getting you the treatment you need.
According to a 2017 report from the Council of Accountable Physician Practices (CAPP), many patients believe healthy patient-provider relationships are the No. 1 factor in quality care. The survey also notes that patients generally want knowledgeable providers who explain medical concepts clearly and take their time during appointments.
While it makes sense that patients would prioritize good relationships with providers, it’s important to note that healthy patient-provider relationships can improve healing outcomes as well.
As a dean at Stanford’s School of Medicine explains, “The relationship between a care provider and a patient is vitally important in determining the health and well‑being of the patient and the outcome of treatments.”
In a study from McGill University, patients explained how listening was a core part of the data gathering and diagnosis process, provided a therapeutic mechanism, and strengthened their relationship with their providers leading to better health outcomes overall.
Unfortunately, this is a common issue for sufferers of chronic pain. In another study that interviewed people with chronic back pain, respondents mentioned wanting to be seen and understood and a desire to be listened to.
Some patients have had negative experiences in their quest to treat their chronic pain. Dr. Fanaee has treated patients whose previous providers did not believe their concerns about pain or did not thoroughly investigate the root causes. Dr. Fanaee is committed to developing a healthy patient-provider relationship to improve your healing outcomes.
If you’re ready to form a partnership with your provider, schedule a pain management consultation. Call our appointments hotline at 631-358-2589, or make an appointment online. We offer both in-person and virtual visits.
