The right treatments for my pain

Asking the BRAN questions

When considering if surgery or medicines are an appropriate option this should be discussed with your healthcare professionals and you come to an informed decision based on facts and shared decision making.

It is useful to consider the BRAN prompt. BRAN are questions to help patients make an informed choice about their test and treatment options.

The questions are:

What are the Benefits?
What are the Risks?
What are the Alternatives?
What if I do Nothing?

When surgery is not an option

Often with chronic pain surgery or medicines may not be an appropriate option. It can be hard to be told there is nothing more I can do for you or there are no other options. People understandably feel frustrated, and it can have a significant impact on mood, which in turn, can make your pain experience worse. Being told surgery is not an option should not be the end of the road, we know from the experience of many patients and professionals that there are lots of things that can be done differently which can help.

Lastly, the supported self management section considers who might help you best manage your pain, the importance of self-management and the roles others will play as part of your support network.