In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Fishman shows how communicating better with patients about their pain can help physicians create safer and more effective treatment strategies. Listening to Pain offers physicians a wealth of practical guidance about asking the right questions and assessing patient responses, including:
-What questions to ask pain patients when they first present with pain
-Using functional goals as outcome measures
-Educating patients about the risks and benefits of treatment
-Documenting patient consent and compliance with treatment regimens
-How to manage difficult patients

Introduction: The Healing Art of Communication
Chapter 1: Asking the Right Questions
Step 1: Slow Down
Step 2: Focus on the Whole Patient, Not Just the Pain
Step 3: Use Reflective Listening Skills
The Importance of Taking a Comprehensive
History
Focusing on Function
The Balancing Act of Compassion and Vigilance
Chapter 2: Focusing on Function
The Myth of Zero Pain
A Different Approach
Monitoring Functional Changes
"Universal Precautions" in Pain Management
Chapter 3: Keeping Track of Treatment
Why Documentation is a Doctor's (and Patient's) Best Friend
Elements of Effective Documentation
Assessment
Patient Education About Risks and Benefits of Therapy
Physician-Patient Treatment Agreements
Monitoring Functional Progress, Adherence, and Adverse Events
Modifying Treatments Over Time
Chapter 4: Dealing With Difficult Patients
The Sources of Aberrant Behaviors
Managing Aberrant Patient Behavior
Coping With Specific Aberrant Behaviors
Terminating a Relationship
The Rewards of Perseverance
Chapter 5: Physician Survival
Appendix: Resources for Pain Management
Acknowledgments
About the Author

Scott M. Fishman, M.D. is a leading pain medicine clinician, teacher, researcher, and writer. He is President and Chairman of the American Pain Foundation and Past President of the American Academy of Pain Medicine as well as Professor and Chief of the Division of Pain Medicine at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine. Dr. Fishman has received board certification in Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Palliative Care. His other books include The War on Pain, Responsible Opioid Prescribing, Spinal Cord Stimulation, Bonica's Management of Pain 4