Millions of Americans suffer from pain that persists for weeks, months, or even years at a time. Whether it’s back pain, arthritis, or migraines, this condition is called chronic pain. Chronic pain syndrome can be difficult to treat despite the estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide who suffer from it. Understanding your chronic pain will help you find the treatment you need to overcome it.
Some common causes of chronic pain syndrome include an initial injury, such as a sprained back, which may have triggered a continuous pain response. Arthritis, cancer, ear infections, and other ongoing problems can also cause chronic pain. While these are some common causes, it’s important to note that some people have no past injury or ongoing conditions to cause their chronic pain.
Treating Your Chronic Pain
When you suspect that you have chronic pain syndrome, you should consult with your doctor. They will ask you several questions about your pain to help them understand the problem. While it’s difficult to measure chronic pain, they may also ask you to rate what you feel on a pain scale. After learning what they can from you, your doctor may order x-rays or MRI scans to determine the source of your pain.
Your doctor may also suggest that you see a pain specialist. At Advanced Surgical Hospital in Washington, PA., we have a pain clinic where specialists will help you treat and manage your pain. Many chronic pain patients feel dismayed if their doctor can’t find the source of their pain. The professionals at ASH know you’re not exaggerating about your pain. With our patient-centered care approach, we’ll focus on you and pain management so you recover and return to normal activities quickly.
You have several options when it comes to treating your chronic pain. You can discuss all of your pain management options with your doctor and pain specialist, but here are a few treatment methods:
Pain relief medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, opioid medications, and more. As with all prescriptions drugs, if you and your physician decide this is the best treatment option for you, make sure you use your medication responsibly.
Acupuncture, or inserting fine needles into your skin, is another treatment option. Acupuncture has been known to work for arthritis, back, and neck pain.
Some patients also practice meditation to manage their pain.
Pain is a highly personal issue and every care plan for it will differ from another. Working with a doctor is the best way to go about creating a personalized treatment plan for any pain problems you are experiencing. You can learn more about your treatment options when you visit our pain management center at Advanced Surgical Hospital. Contact us for more information!
