Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than three to six months. It is less responsive to treatments that traditionally help relieve pain and continues beyond the usual response to recovery from acute pain. It can be associated with a specific event or may be more gradual in onset. Although not completely understood, it can be caused by changes in nerve endings and pain receptors associated with injury, low levels of endorphins (natural chemicals in the body that reduce painful sensations), or can be the result of psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Symptoms:
- Constant pain but may fluctuate in intensity
- May be localized to a specific area or spread out through the entire body
- Aching
- Throbbing
- Burning
- Pins and needles sensation
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
- May increase feelings of anxiety and depression
Treatment:
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections for areas of localized pain
- Nerve blocks
- Acupuncture
- Laser therapy
- Osteopathic manipulation
- Medications
- Lifestyle modifications
- Management of psychological stressors