Chronic Pain Overview
Chronic pain is pain that lasts for 3 months or longer. It can be constant or intermittent, and it can occur anywhere in the body. Unlike acute pain, which is a normal sensation that alerts us to injury or illness, chronic pain persists even after the body has healed. It can significantly interfere with daily life, affecting physical functioning, emotional well-being, and social interactions.
Signs & Symptoms
The experience of chronic pain is subjective and varies from person-to-person. Common symptoms include:
- Aching, burning, shooting, stabbing, or throbbing pain
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Tenderness to the touch
- Pain that worsens with activity or stress
- Fatigue and low energy
- Sleep disturbances
- Depression and anxiety
- Irritability and mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Decreased appetite
- Social withdrawal
Causes
Chronic pain can have various underlying causes, including:
Past injuries, such as sprains, strains, or fractures, can lead to chronic pain even after the initial injury has healed.
Many medical conditions can cause chronic pain, including:
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Cancer
- Fibromyalgia
- Headaches (migraines, tension headaches)
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
In some cases, the cause of chronic pain is unknown. This is sometimes referred to as chronic primary pain.
Managing Chronic Pain
Chronic pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach to management. Treatment options may include:
- Pain relievers (analgesics)
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy: Helps improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Occupational therapy: Assists with adapting daily activities to manage pain.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps develop coping strategies and manage the emotional impact of pain.
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Injections (corticosteroids, nerve blocks)
- Surgery (in some cases)
Living with Chronic Pain
Balance activity and rest to avoid overexertion.
Regular physical activity can help improve pain and overall well-being.
Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress and its impact on pain.
Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Connect with others who have chronic pain to share experiences and support.
A List of Adult Mental Health Issues We Treat at Sullivan & Associates
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Psychosis is a mental health condition that affects a person’s ability to perceive and interpret reality. It can involve a range of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Psychosis can be a symptom of various mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression.
Relationship issues are a common experience, affecting romantic partnerships, friendships, family relationships, and professional connections. These issues can arise from a variety of sources, including communication problems, differing values, unmet needs, life transitions, and external stressors. While occasional disagreements and challenges are normal, persistent or severe relationship issues can lead to significant distress and impact overall well-being.
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