The Top 5 Rated Fibromyalgia Doctors in Pittsburgh to Help You Feel Better

Finding the right doctor for fibromyalgia can be challenging due to the complexity of the condition. Many patients seek specialists who understand the unique symptoms and can offer effective treatment options.

The top-rated fibromyalgia doctors in Pittsburgh are recognized for their expertise and patient-focused care. These providers combine medical knowledge with compassionate support to help manage chronic pain and improve quality of life.

1) Cheryl D. Bernstein, MD

Dr. Cheryl D. Bernstein is a pain management physician with expertise in fibromyalgia, headache, and other types of chronic pain. She is board-certified in pain medicine and neurology, reflecting her strong background in treating complex conditions. Her knowledge extends to cancer, musculoskeletal, and neuropathic pain as well.

She earned her medical degree at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Dr. Bernstein completed advanced training through residencies and fellowships at prestigious institutions including Johns Hopkins University and the University of Pittsburgh. She has been part of UPMC Pain Management since 2003.

Dr. Bernstein is well published and recognized, having contributed to over 30 scholarly articles and book chapters. She has also been named to the Best Doctors in America list yearly since 2007. She is affiliated with several UPMC hospitals, ensuring comprehensive care for her patients.

Rating: 1.9 (95 reviews)
Location: 5750 Centre Ave # 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Contact: (412) 665-8030
Website: Visit Website

2) Dr. Ghaith Noaiseh

Dr. Ghaith Noaiseh is an internist based in Pittsburgh, known for providing attentive and personalized care. He focuses on understanding each patient’s unique needs, which is important for managing chronic conditions like fibromyalgia.

He practices at an office located on Forbes Avenue, conveniently accessible for people in the Pittsburgh area. His approach combines careful diagnosis with ongoing support to help improve patients’ quality of life.

Dr. Noaiseh is affiliated with UPMC, a major health care provider that offers a wide range of medical services and resources. This connection gives him access to the latest research and treatments in internal medicine.

Rating: 5 (3 reviews)
Location: 5889 Forbes Ave #220, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Contact: (412) 586-3550
Website: Visit Website

3) UPMC Pain Medicine at UPMC St. Margaret

UPMC Pain Medicine at UPMC St. Margaret offers specialized care for individuals dealing with various types of pain, including fibromyalgia. They focus on creating personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs and challenges of each patient.

Their team uses a range of methods to manage pain, such as medications, interventional procedures like pain-relieving injections, and referrals to physical therapists or behavioral health specialists. This multidisciplinary approach helps patients better cope with both acute and chronic pain.

The clinic works closely with other health experts to support overall well-being and help patients return to everyday activities. Their goal is to improve comfort and quality of life through thoughtful, tailored care.

Rating: 2.7 (20 reviews)
Location: 200 Delafield Rd #2070, Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Contact: (412) 784-5119
Website: Visit Website

4) Moreland Larry W MD

Moreland Larry W MD is a rheumatologist based in Pittsburgh who specializes in diagnosing and treating fibromyalgia. He works with patients to manage symptoms through personalized care and targeted therapies. Patients appreciate his attentive approach and clear communication.

His office is conveniently located on Fifth Avenue, making it accessible for those in the Pittsburgh area. Many patients value the supportive environment he fosters during visits. This doctor is known for staying current with treatments to offer the best care possible.

Appointments can be scheduled by phone, and the office staff is helpful with patient inquiries. The location is easy to find, situated near other medical facilities. This helps patients who may have multiple healthcare needs.

Rating: 5 (7 reviews)
Location: 3601 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Contact: (412) 647-6700

5) Jorge Rivero Becerra, MD: Vital Pain Center

Dr. Jorge Rivero Becerra at Vital Pain Center offers specialized pain management services in Pittsburgh. His practice includes treatments like medical cannabis registration, stem cell therapy, epidural injections, and radiofrequency ablation, which can help patients with various chronic pain conditions including fibromyalgia.

The center often accommodates same-day appointments, making it convenient for patients needing prompt care. Patients are advised to bring a driver for most injection procedures. The office is open Monday through Thursday with extended hours on Thursdays.

Vital Pain Center provides personalized care focused on improving quality of life. Dr. Rivero is known for his knowledge and kindness, earning trust from many patients, including police and military personnel. Growth factor injections for joint and ligament regeneration are also available.

Rating: 4 (85 reviews)
Location: 363 Vanadium Rd #106, Pittsburgh, PA 15243
Contact: (412) 279-1231
Website: Visit Website

What to Look for in a Top Fibromyalgia Doctor

Choosing the right fibromyalgia doctor means considering specific qualities that impact diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. It involves finding someone with relevant expertise, a personalized approach, and the ability to work well with other specialists.

Specialization and Experience

A fibromyalgia doctor should have a strong background in rheumatology, pain medicine, or neurology, as these specialties focus on conditions involving chronic pain and musculoskeletal issues. Experience with fibromyalgia specifically is crucial because the symptoms are complex and can overlap with other disorders.

Look for doctors board-certified in the relevant fields and those who regularly treat fibromyalgia patients. This expertise helps ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. For example, Dr. Cheryl Bernstein in Pittsburgh is certified in pain medicine and neurology, highlighting the importance of specialization.

Patient-Centered Approach

A top fibromyalgia doctor listens carefully to the patient’s symptoms and concerns. They tailor treatment strategies to fit individual needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method. This approach often includes a combination of medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and mental health support.

Clear communication and empathy are essential traits. Patients with fibromyalgia benefit when their doctors validate their experiences and provide ongoing support. Providers like Dr. Marissa Pavlinich, known for personalized care, demonstrate this patient-focused style.

Collaboration with Other Healthcare Providers

Fibromyalgia requires management from a team, often including physical therapists, psychologists, and primary care doctors. A fibromyalgia specialist should coordinate smoothly with these professionals to address all aspects of the condition.

This teamwork helps manage symptoms like pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties more effectively. Efficient collaboration also prevents overlapping treatments or conflicting advice. Doctors affiliated with large medical centers, such as UPMC, often have better access to multidisciplinary care networks.

How to Prepare for Your First Appointment

Preparing for the first visit to a fibromyalgia specialist involves gathering detailed information about symptoms and deciding on important questions to discuss. Being organized helps make the appointment as effective as possible.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Patients should prepare a list of specific questions about their diagnosis, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments. These might include:

• What tests will confirm fibromyalgia?
• What treatment plans have worked best for others with similar symptoms?
• How can pain and fatigue be managed day-to-day?
• Are there potential side effects of medications?
• Should diet or exercise routines change?

Bringing a notepad or using a phone to record answers can be helpful. It ensures important details are not missed during the appointment.

Sharing Your Symptom History

Clearly describing symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Patients should note:

• When symptoms began and how often they occur
• Intensity and location of pain or fatigue
• Any patterns or triggers noticed
• Impact on sleep, mood, and daily activities

Keeping a symptom diary before the visit can provide a timeline that helps the doctor understand the condition better. Writing down past treatments or medications tried is also useful. This detailed history supports a personalized treatment plan.

For more tips, patients can check how to prepare for a fibromyalgia appointment from WebMD’s guide.