The Voice

As a physical therapist who specializes in relieving pain, I have a dual listing in the Yellow Pages. One is listed under the heading "Physical Therapist" and the other under "Pain Management". I long ago stopped paying for the larger box-type Yellow Page listings,as they never paid off. But the dual listing is free, so it continues.

Given my "pain management" listing, I get frequent calls and messages from people who are looking for a new pain physician. I have gotten to the point where I can tell whether they are seeking my services or need pain medication simply by listening to the tone of their voice. There is a desperation that seldom comes through in people who are calling to schedule a session with me for Myofascial Release. "Drug Seekers" is one term that has been applied to those who shop around for someone who will prescribe pain medications, but not all of these people are seekers. many are simply desperate for help, of any kind. I used to try to tell them that they have choices, that I might be able to get them out of the need for medication. It nearly always ends the same way; they ask if I know of any pain physicians that they can call. I really think I could help them, but there is just too much need in their voice. I have a pain physician in the office suite directly above me; I keep him number handy. When I see these people walk into his office, their body posturing matches the voice.

I do what I can.