Dr. Harold Dalton, DO is a Pain Medicine Physician practicing at his clinic in Fort Lauderdale, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Pain Medicine care for older adults 65 years and older. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Dalton's expertise lies in managing complex chronic pain conditions common in this population, partnering with primary care physicians and the broader care team to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life through comprehensive medication management, minimally-invasive procedures, and advanced therapies. He is a graduate of Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, with additional training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and Emory University, and has over 25 years of dedicated experience in Pain Medicine care. He earned his medical degree in 1996 and completed his residency and fellowship training in the subsequent years. Dr. Dalton is Board Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and offers consultations in Spanish. He is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (954) 771-2551 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Dalton's approach to Pain Medicine emphasizes a thorough understanding of each patient's unique needs. He believes the key to successful treatment lies in obtaining an accurate diagnosis, starting with a detailed history and physical exam, which is augmented with appropriate imaging, electrodiagnostic studies, and interventional diagnostic testing to pinpoint the precise source of pain. This meticulous diagnostic process, combined with his extensive experience and fellowship training, ensures that patients receive personalized and effective care. He understands the specific challenges and needs of older adults, and he works collaboratively with his patients and their families to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address both the physical and emotional aspects of pain management. As the Director of Interventional Diagnostics at Florida Spine Specialists and an Assistant Clinical Professor at Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Dalton is a highly respected member of the medical community, actively participating in various national, state, and local medical organizations. He is a testament to dedication and compassion in the field of senior health.
His extensive background includes a traditional rotating internship at Palmetto General Hospital, where he served as Chief Intern, and a distinguished residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago at Northwestern University, followed by a fellowship in Interventional Pain Medicine at Emory University and Georgia Pain Physicians. With over a decade of practice in Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Dalton is deeply rooted in the community he serves. Recently, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Osteopath inducted into the greater Fort Lauderdale Cadusean Society. He also held the position of Past President of the Florida Society of Interventional Pain Physicians. His passion for his work is evident in his dedication to providing exceptional care and support to his patients and their families.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Harold Dalton is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Dalton is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive pain management. He specializes in the complex pain conditions often affecting older adults, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other healthcare providers to develop personalized treatment plans. This includes careful medication management, minimally invasive procedures, and advanced therapies, all aimed at reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing the overall quality of life for each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Harold Dalton can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Golden Rule
HealthPartners
Humana
Medical Mutual of Ohio
Medicare
Neighborhood Health Plan
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- GEHA
- Government Employees Health Association (GEHA)
- Health Net
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Harold Dalton provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Osteoarthritis of Spine: As we age, the cartilage in our spine can deteriorate, resulting in spinal osteoarthritis. This can cause back pain, but doctors can provide effective treatments to improve comfort and function.
- Spinal Cord Injury: A spinal cord injury involves damage to the nerves in your spine, sometimes leading to chronic pain. Pain management specialists work to reduce this pain through various methods, helping you stay as active and independent as possible.
- Upper Back Pain: Chronic upper back pain can significantly affect your daily life, but with the right care, you can find relief and improve your functionality. Our team uses a holistic approach to manage your pain, involving medication, procedures, and other supportive therapies.
- Spondylarthritis: Living with spondylarthritis's persistent spinal pain doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your quality of life; a pain management doctor can work with you to find ways to reduce your pain and improve your function.
- Lumbar Sprain: Experiencing lower back pain from a lumbar sprain can be challenging, but with a healthcare professional's guidance, combining medication and exercises, you can effectively manage the pain and improve your ability to perform daily activities.
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Shoulder impingement syndrome is a painful condition where tendons and bursa in your shoulder are squeezed, causing discomfort and limited movement, but treatment can help restore your range of motion and independence.
- Cervical Disc Degeneration: The discs in your neck can deteriorate over time, a process called cervical disc degeneration. This can cause pain, but a doctor can provide effective treatments such as medication, injections, or even spinal cord stimulation to help manage your pain and preserve your ability to perform daily tasks.
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Experiencing lower back pain that radiates down your legs? It could be lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on your nerves. Pain management strategies, possibly including injections or other procedures, can help reduce pain and improve your overall well-being.
- Lumbar Disc Degeneration: Lumbar disc degeneration refers to the gradual breakdown of the discs in your lower back, which can cause discomfort and stiffness. A pain medicine specialist can work with you to find a treatment plan that helps you live more comfortably and actively.
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is characterized by pain around the kneecap, but with the right careincluding physical therapy, pain medication, and possibly injectionsyou can manage the pain, and regain your confidence and mobility.
- Back Pain: Back pain doesn't have to control your life. A pain medicine physician can help you manage this condition, using the right combination of treatment to regain your independence and improve your quality of life.
- Spine Disorders: If you're experiencing persistent back or neck pain due to a spine problem, a pain management doctor can work with you to find the best approach, whether it's medication, injections, or other therapies, to improve your comfort and function.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Harold Dalton offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Spinal Nerve Block: Spinal nerve blocks are minimally invasive procedures that can help determine the best long-term pain management strategy for you.
- Facet Block: A facet block injection helps pinpoint the source of your back pain by temporarily numbing specific nerves in your spine.
- Epidural Injection: This procedure helps seniors regain independence by providing lasting pain relief from conditions such as spinal stenosis or sciatica, improving their ability to move freely.
- Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection: This procedure helps your doctor assess the severity and source of your neck pain and may provide temporary pain relief, enabling you to participate more fully in life.
- Sacroiliac Joint Injection: This injection helps assess the role of the sacroiliac joint in your lower back pain and allows your doctor to develop a personalized care plan, which may include medication, physical therapy, or other interventions.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Epidural steroid injections are a minimally invasive procedure that can help pinpoint the source of your back pain and reduce inflammation.
- Trigger Point Injection: As part of a comprehensive pain management plan, trigger point injections can relieve chronic muscle pain in older adults, making daily activities easier.
- Epidural Block: Epidural blocks are sometimes used to diagnose the specific cause of your spinal pain, guiding your doctor in choosing the most effective long-term treatment strategy.
- Viscosupplementation With Hyaluronate: To help seniors maintain mobility and independence, viscosupplementation injections provide joint lubrication and pain relief, reducing reliance on stronger medications.
- Peripheral Nerve Block: Peripheral nerve blocks are used to diagnose the exact location of nerve pain and provide temporary pain relief while determining the best long-term treatment strategy.
- Thoracic Facet Joint Injection: To ease chronic upper back pain, a thoracic facet joint injection delivers medication directly to the affected joints, providing targeted pain relief.
- Somatic Nerve Block: This minimally invasive procedure helps reduce pain by interrupting nerve signals in the affected area, offering a path to better function and quality of life for seniors.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Pain Medicine Physicians in Florida.
Dr. Harold Dalton is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to resume their beloved weekly bridge games, finding renewed joy and social connection despite spinal osteoarthritis.
- With a tailored pain management plan, a senior with a spinal cord injury found relief from debilitating pain, allowing them to resume their beloved daily walks in the park.
- With targeted therapies and supportive care, a senior was able to resume gardening and enjoy their favorite hobby without the debilitating upper back pain. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one could once again participate in their cherished activities.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation)
- Florida Society of Interventional Pain Physicians President's Achievement Award, May 2011
Here are answers to some common questions about Pain Medicine care with Dr. Harold Dalton:
- What is a Pain Medicine specialist?
- A pain medicine specialist, like Dr. Dalton, is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating chronic pain. They aim to find the root cause of your pain and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to improve your function, mobility, and overall quality of life, not just focus on medication.
- Is the only treatment option more pain medication?
- No. Our approach is multimodal, using a variety of treatments to reduce reliance on oral medications. Dr. Dalton focuses on minimally-invasive procedures like targeted injections, nerve blocks, and physical therapy to address the source of pain, helping patients feel better and live more actively.
- My back pain has been here for years. Can anything really be done?
- We understand the frustration of years of back pain. While a complete cure isn't always possible, significant pain reduction and improved daily function are often achievable. Dr. Dalton uses advanced diagnostic techniques to identify the source of your pain and creates a personalized treatment plan, which may include injections or other targeted therapies.
- I have terrible nerve pain from my diabetes (neuropathy). Can you help?
- Yes, neuropathic pain requires a different approach than other types of pain. Dr. Dalton has expertise in managing this, using specific medications, sympathetic nerve blocks, or even advanced treatments like spinal cord stimulation to calm overactive nerves and provide relief.
- I'm on a blood thinner. Can I still have an injection procedure?
- Patient safety is our top priority. For many procedures, blood thinners may need to be temporarily stopped, but this is always coordinated with your prescribing doctor (like your cardiologist). Dr. Dalton will provide very specific instructions on when to stop and restart your medications to ensure the procedure is performed safely.
- What is an epidural steroid injection and is it safe?
- An epidural steroid injection is a common and effective procedure where a strong anti-inflammatory medication is delivered precisely to the source of pain in the spine. It helps reduce swelling and inflammation around nerves, providing significant relief. When performed by a specialist like Dr. Harold Dalton using x-ray guidance, it is a very safe procedure.
- What is a facet joint injection?
- A facet joint injection is a precise injection of numbing medicine and a steroid directly into a small, stabilizing joint in your spine (like a knuckle). If these joints become arthritic, they can cause neck or back pain. The injection helps confirm if the joint is the source of the pain and provides temporary relief.
- What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
- A spinal cord stimulator is a small, implanted device that sends mild electrical signals to the spinal cord, similar to a pacemaker for pain. These signals interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, often replacing pain with a more pleasant sensation or nothing at all. A temporary trial allows patients to experience the therapy before a permanent implant.
6000 N Federal Hwy
Fort Lauderdale FL 33308
Phone: (954) 771-2551
Dr. Harold Dalton, DO is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1710988332
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Pain Medicine Physicians like Dr. Harold Dalton are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.