What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is defined as persistent pain lasting longer than three months, or beyond the expected healing time for an injury. It can manifest in various forms, including continuous pain or pain that comes and goes, and it can significantly impact an individual's daily life, affecting their ability to work, socialize, and enjoy activities. 

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Causes of Chronic Pain:

Chronic pain can be the result of musculoskeletal, neurologic, urologic, gastrointestinal, or reproductive disorders. Other factors that contribute to chronic pain may include age, genetics, obesity, surgery, previous trauma, underlying health condition, and stress or mood disorders.

The University of Arizona Health Sciences study found that adults with chronic pain are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression than people without chronic pain, yet they access mental health care at lower rates and are less likely to have their mental health needs met in treatment.

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Diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the pain:

• Bloodwork

• Imaging: MRI, X-rays, CT scans, Ultrasound

• Diagnostic injections

• Electromyography 

• Nerve conduction testing

• Neurological assessments

• Mobility and strength assessments

• Genetic testing

Assessing, diagnosing, and managing chronic pain can be difficult, as pain is subjective.

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Symptoms:

• Anxiety, depression, and mood swings

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Isolation

• Joint discomfort

• Muscular pain and tenderness

• Nerve pain

• Obesity

Pain symptoms may be described as achy, burning, constant, dull, numbness and tingling, pins and needles, radiating, sharp, shooting, stabbing, and throbbing.

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Treatment for Chronic Pain:

• Mental Health Treatment and Psychotherapy

• Medication: Anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs), muscle relaxer, and pain medication, as appropriate.

• Chiropractic Care

• Physical Therapy

• Injections

• Nerve Blocks

• Pain Pump Therapy

• Radiofrequency Ablation

• Spinal Cord Stimulation

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The Orthopaedic Spine & Joint Center team of Board-Certified Pain Management Specialists and Mental Health Professionals believe in taking a holistic approach, considering the physical, emotional and lifestyle factors contributing to pain. We are dedicated to treating chronic pain conditions, and we focus on getting to the root cause of the problem to provide long-term pain relief tailored to each patient’s unique situation. Our multidisciplinary approach reduces pain and restores function putting the focus of our care and expertise where it belongs, on our patients. To schedule an appointment with a Pain Management Specialist or Mental Health Provider, please call (614) 318-0808.

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