Perceptions

PAIN PRACTICE

Patient Information

Learn about our new patient process and frequently asked questions.

New Patient Process

Obtain a referral

Prior to booking your first appointment, please visit your regular GP to obtain a referral.

Book an appointment

Once we receive your referral from yourself or your GP, our friendly team will contact you to arrange an appointment time.

Bring your information

Please bring your Medicare card, private health card and any previous specialist reports or relevant medical imaging to your first appointment.

What To Expect

Dr Shek will take you through a complex assessment and pain history examination in your initial consultation, and work alongside you to formulate a comprehensive ongoing treatment plan.


Your initial consultation and assessment is thorough and can often take 45 minutes or more. Follow up consultations are generally shorter, to continue fine-tuning your treatment plan and monitoring your progress.

Request an appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What's a pain specialist?

    A pain specialist is a medical practitioner who has obtained fellowships from two specialist colleges. For some, this may mean they have completed their study as a GP as well as from the Pain College. They are highly skilled and have extensive expertise in their field.

  • What's the definition of chronic pain?

    Pain exceeding three months in duration is defined as chronic, and can affect adults, young adults and children alike. If you're experiencing symptoms of chronic pain, visit your general practitioner to obtain a referral and contact us for an appointment.

  • What are the most common types of chronic pain?

    The most common types of chronic pain are migraines, back pain, knee, shoulder and neck pains. Nerve pain and fibromyalgia are also common pain conditions. 

  • What are some treatment options for chronic pain?

    Chronic pain should be treated in a multidisciplinary setting due to its complexity.  This multidisciplinary team may consist of your general practitioner, pain specialist, physiotherapist, psychiatrist, psychologist, exercise physiologist and dietitian. The clinical team required would depend on your circumstances, needs and preferences. 


    At Perceptions Pain Practice, Dr Shek will work in collaboration with you to complete a comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and advise you on the best way forward. Dr Shek may offer pharmacotherapies (medication treatment),  and interventions such as nerve blocks and radiofrequency neurotomies.

  • What do I have to do now to get pain relief?

    Please see your general practitioner for a referral and contact us for an appointment.

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