expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Mark N. Malinowski, D.O.

Pain Management Specialist | Interventional Pain Medicine

Dr. Mark Malinowski practices Pain Medicine in Chillicothe, OH. Pain medicine is concerned with the prevention of pain, and the evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients experiencing pain. Pain medicine physicians use a broad-based approach to treat all pain disorders, ranging from pain as a symptom of disease to pain as the primary disease. Dr. Malinowski serves as a consultant to other physicians but is often the principal treating physician, providing care at various levels; such as treating the patient directly, prescribing medication, prescribing rehabilitative services, performing pain relieving procedures, counseling patients and families, directing a multidisciplinary team, coordinating care with other healthcare providers, and providing consultative services.
16 years Experience
Dr. Mark N. Malinowski, D.O.
  • Columbus, OH
  • Ohio State U. Medical Center
  • Accepting new patients

Can a psychiatrist treat chronic pain?

Yes, they can if they are fellowship trained to do so.

Should I get a chiropractic adjustment if my back hurts?

Before I can answer this question, I would recommend that you have a physical exam by your doctor and if required, get imaging (X-rays, MRI). If there is no serious issue, then READ MORE
Before I can answer this question, I would recommend that you have a physical exam by your doctor and if required, get imaging (X-rays, MRI). If there is no serious issue, then an evaluation by a chiropractor follow by treatment would be reasonable.

Why is nerve pain worse at night?

That is a great question, and it is a phenomenon that is not really that well understood. Sometimes, if it is a pinched nerve, then simply repositioning can help. If your nerve READ MORE
That is a great question, and it is a phenomenon that is not really that well understood. Sometimes, if it is a pinched nerve, then simply repositioning can help. If your nerve pain is a neuropathy, then that will not work. That being said, medicines for nerve pain can be given at bedtime to make the night more tolerable and conducive to resting. Inform your doctor about these troubles to explore options.

How long does spinal anesthesia pain last?

This can be from a variety of sources/possibilities. I would reach out to the anesthesia department that performed this procedure. In most cases, this is self limiting.

What are possible knee injuries I could be facing due to slamming knee into cement curb? Should I be concerned?

There is a lot going on here. First, the initial fall seems to point in the direction of a fractured patella (knee cap). Due to the way you fell, in addition, there was/is remaining READ MORE
There is a lot going on here. First, the initial fall seems to point in the direction of a fractured patella (knee cap). Due to the way you fell, in addition, there was/is remaining soft tissue injury. This could come in the way of a bursitis or as severe as ligament or tendon rupture. When you fell, the force of the fall was also translated up your femur to your hip joint. Regarding the pain and numbness, this could be coming from the hip joint itself or be related to the way you are walking (to favor your already injured knee). Regardless, I would pay the $700 and get the imaging your doctor recommended. I think that you really should see an orthopedist or sports medicine doctor for a follow up evaluation. Your leg seems to have been severely injured and is not healing on its own well. I think you need additional orthopedic follow up.

Do you need physical therapy after bunion surgery?

I would ask your podiatrist. In most cases, PT therapy is a great choice.

Medication?

Please reach out to these prescribers to assist you.

What’s the issue going on with my arm?

This is compression of your brachial plexus nerves. You're best to avoid laying in this fashion.

My daughter has chronic pain. What should I do?

The issue is that any given person's experience of pain, and in particular chronic pain, is a combination of biological, psychological and social factors as described by Engel READ MORE
The issue is that any given person's experience of pain, and in particular chronic pain, is a combination of biological, psychological and social factors as described by Engel in 1977 (The Biopsychosocial Model of Pain)
The best approach is to engage the primary care physician and determine is there need for a general wellness screen. Based upon the outcomes of this, corrective action of what can be addressed should be done. The importance of stress management, sleep and treatment of depression and associated disorders cannot be overlooked and should be addressed immediately. Lastly, physical therapy should be initiated to meet the specific or general musculoskeletal problem and consultation to Pain Management is an important next step for subspecialty recommendations.

Unusual pain?

Transient sternocostal rib dysfunction may occur in some people. Osteoarthritis may play a component, but autoimmune mediated disorders may play a part in some people. When it READ MORE
Transient sternocostal rib dysfunction may occur in some people. Osteoarthritis may play a component, but autoimmune mediated disorders may play a part in some people. When it comes to "chest" pain, it is always recommended to see your doctor for an evaluation. Worsening chest pain is never normal and one should seek immediate medical attention in response.

Is stretching good for nerve damage?

"Neural Flossing" is a way to loosen a nerve when it is entrapped. This is a theoretical problem as it relates to "pinched nerves" in the spine. Stretching/flossing/releasing these READ MORE
"Neural Flossing" is a way to loosen a nerve when it is entrapped. This is a theoretical problem as it relates to "pinched nerves" in the spine. Stretching/flossing/releasing these entrapped nerves may alleviate the problem. I recommend speaking with your physical therapist about these exercises.

Why do I have leg spasms after working out?

Proper hydration and electrolyte balance is important to mitigate cramps. The Florida Gators recognized this years ago. Now we have "Gatorade"

How do you deal with chronic pain psychologically?

Sleep and psychological support/therapy is key. When painful problems cannot be solved, then coping mechanisms must be optimized.

How can I relieve ear pain at night?

Consult your ENT doctor. Topical may be prescribed.

What is the best way to treat muscle pains?

Heat or ice, whichever feels the best. Limit overuse in the healing phase. NSAIDs are very useful but their use and frequency thereof should be tailored to the person and their READ MORE
Heat or ice, whichever feels the best. Limit overuse in the healing phase. NSAIDs are very useful but their use and frequency thereof should be tailored to the person and their associated medical problems (AKA Consult your primary care physician). Last but not least, any muscle needs maintenance such as proper stretching both before and after use. Listen to your body, if it hurts too badly, don't do it!

Should I keep walking with knee pain?

Exercise is important, but limiting damage to joints is also very important. Pain is a symptom of something negatively occurring and should be evaluated by your doctor.

Is tramadol a narcotic pain medicine?

Tramadol is, in fact, an opioid. "Narcotic" is more of a legal term rather than a medical term. An opioid is a synthetic (man-made) substance. An opiate is a derivative of the READ MORE
Tramadol is, in fact, an opioid. "Narcotic" is more of a legal term rather than a medical term. An opioid is a synthetic (man-made) substance. An opiate is a derivative of the poppy and is a natural derivative (e.g., Morphine).

What is the best painkiller for ear pain?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. Topical ear drops containing local anesthetics and pain medicine may also be prescribed by your doctor.