When we experience pain, it could be a sign of a more serious problem in the body. Normally pain is a warning sign of something being wrong, leading to us seeking help and treatment, where the pain will eventually go away. However, when that pain lingers and there doesn’t seem like there’s anything that can help it subside, this can mean that you’re experiencing chronic pain.
Experiencing your body aching all over along with chronic fatigue and pain, can have long lasting effects on your mental health and quality of life. It may seem like there is no hope, leaving you feeling helpless while looking for a way to make the pain go away. Since chronic pain can last for weeks to months on end, it can cause those who are suffering to become depressed as the pain, and impact on their life, seems never ending.
Between one third and half of people in the UK suffer from chronic pain. If you’re one of them, finding a solution is probably important to you. That’s why at Active Care Chiropractic we are dedicated to helping patients become pain free through various treatments. Not only that, but with our expert knowledge we have put together this blog to answer all of your questions on chronic pain and hopefully help you find the right treatment. Keep reading to find out what causes chronic pain and how you can work towards feeling like yourself again.
If you are suffering with chronic pain, you should always see a doctor before starting any treatments.
What Is Chronic Pain?
Just about everyone will face discomfort in their body within their lifetime, however usually when we experience pain there will be an obvious cause, whether that’s an injury or a known illness. But what is chronic pain and how does it differ from average pain? Usually what sets apart chronic pain is how long it lasts. If it lasts more than three months then it’s likely that it’s chronic. You may feel it all the time or it could go away and come back, but if that pain has been consistent for months, then that’s different from acute pain – which doesn’t last long and occurs when you injure yourself. When you experience acute pain you typically know the cause, however with chronic pain it’s not always apparent why you’re feeling pain which can leave you feeling confused and helpless.
What Is Chronic Pain Syndrome?
If you are aware you have this condition you may be wondering, what is chronic pain syndrome and does it apply to me? Since it can be extremely difficult dealing with constant pain especially when you’re struggling to find any relief, it can lead to developing additional symptoms such as anxiety and depression, making this condition even more difficult to live with. This is because when you deal with consistent, severe pain this can prevent you from working, socialising and leading a normal life. These factors, along with the discomfort, can have serious negative impacts on your mental health, making you feel alone as you are left to deal with the symptoms of chronic pain. While not everyone will develop chronic pain syndrome, it’s important that you receive the treatment and support you need to help you through this difficult condition.
What Causes Chronic Pain
While what causes chronic pain can vary, there are plenty of causes where it isn’t always obvious what has led to you developing the pain you’re having to live with. However, sometimes it can occur when you already have an illness, for example cancer or arthritis, when the pain is linked and you’re aware of the reason. While it can be hard to determine the exact cause of chronic pain since every case is different, there are people who are more at risk of developing this condition. Here are some factors that can lead to or put you more at risk of developing chronic pain:
- Injury:
Accidents, falls and sports can all lead to injuries that can result in chronic pain even once healed. If you experience a fracture, sprain or strain this can result in persistent pain which can be due to improper healing or ongoing inflammation.
- Arthritis
Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is a leading cause of chronic pain. This pain often gets worse with age and can significantly impact daily activities.
- Cancer
Having cancer can cause chronic pain if you have a tumour that is pressing on the bones, nerves or organs. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can also result in long lasting pain.
- Nerve damage
Neuropathy or nerve damage can cause chronic pain that includes the symptoms: burning, tingling or stabbing sensations. That can be caused by a condition like diabetes or a traumatic injury that damages the nerves.
- Stress, anxiety and depression
While a symptom of chronic pain; stress, anxiety and depression can also be a cause. This is because these psychological factors can alter pain perceptions, increasing sensitivity to pain.
- Genetics
Some people are more prone to developing chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis due to their genetic makeup. Understanding your genetics can help with early diagnosis as well as managing pain.
- Obesity
Being obese is a significant risk factor in developing chronic pain, particularly in the joints and back. Carrying excess weight puts additional strain on the body, leading to osteoarthritis and chronic back pain. Fat in cells can stimulate inflammation.
- Age
The risk of chronic pain increases as you age. As you get older, wear and tear on the joints, spine and other tissues can lead to conditions like arthritis which can affect mobility and quality of life.
- Smoking
Did you know that smoking is linked to chronic pain? When you smoke this impairs blood flow and nutrient delivery to tissues leading to increased inflammation and slower healing. Smokers are more likely to develop chronic back pain and rheumatoid arthritis.
Chronic Pain Symptoms
Everybody experiences their chronic pain in different ways, whether that’s your body aching all over or one area that’s causing you trouble. Here are some of the chronic pain symptoms that you may experience:
- Continuous pain
- Your body aching all over
- Chronic fatigue and pain
- Stiffness and soreness
- Burning
- Throbbing
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
Types Of Chronic Pain
Those who are suffering from chronic pain can often experience it in different areas of their body. Depending on what the chronic pain originated from, people will see their symptoms break out in different places. Here are some of the common types of chronic pain that you may be experiencing:
- Joint pain:
Joint pain, often stemming from conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, is a common type of chronic pain. It typically affects the knees, hips, and hands, causing stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
- Back pain:
Chronic back pain can have a range of causes from injuries to poor posture. This type of pain can be debilitating, often limiting physical activity.
- Neck pain:
Chronic neck pain can be due to a herniated disc or muscle strain and can lead to stiffness, headaches and restricted movement. You can often make this worse if you have poor posture or regularly sit at a computer.
- Fibromyalgia:
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread pain, fatigue and tender points throughout the body. This chronic pain is normally accompanied by sleep disturbances, cognitive issues and emotional stress.
- Headaches and migraines
Living with chronic headaches and migraines can be debilitating, often recurring and persistent for hours and days. Sometimes these migraines are accompanied by nausea, vomiting and even sensitivity to light and sound.
- Neuropathic pain
Neuropathic pain is caused by damage or dysfunction to the nervous system that can result in burning, shooting, or stabbing pain. Conditions like diabetes, shingles, and multiple sclerosis can lead to neuropathic pain.
- Inflammatory pain
An irregular immune response can lead to inflammation in the body. Rheumatoid arthritis, IBS and lupus can all lead to chronic inflammatory pain.
Best Chronic Pain Treatments
Although in some cases there is no cure for chronic pain, treatment plans typically focus on trying to improve symptoms in patients as well as their quality of life. The treatment options that may work for you will depend on the type of chronic pain you have as well as the underlying cause. Here are some of the best chronic pain treatments that you may have good results with:
- Medication:
Taking medication can be a way to relieve some of the chronic pain, whether that’s anti-inflammatory drugs or even antidepressants. Speak to your GP or other healthcare professionals for the right prescription for your chronic pain.
- Physical therapy:
Physical therapy involves targeted exercises and manual techniques designed to improve mobility, strengthen muscles and reduce pain. A physical therapist will address specific pain points, helping patients regain function and maintain an active lifestyle.
A chiropractor focuses on treating musculoskeletal disorders particularly those relating to the spine. Through a mixture of treatment options for example manual manipulations, chiropractors can improve your mobility, function and alignment which will help alleviate pain by fixing the underlying problem. At Active Care we have experience in treating patients with chronic pain whether that’s neck, joint, back pain and more!
Red light therapy for chronic pain is an innovative treatment that uses low-level red and infrared wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and promote healing in the underlying tissues. This non-invasive treatment works to reduce inflammation, enhance circulation and stimulate cellular repair. Find out more about red light therapy from Active Care here.
- Psychological support
Since one of the side effects of dealing with chronic pain is anxiety and depression which means that psychological support is a vital part of chronic pain treatment. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness and counselling can help patients cope with the emotional stress associated with chronic pain.
- Lifestyle changes
While not a cure, adopting certain lifestyle changes can help you manage your symptoms. Try to avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet and regularly exercising can help improve your overall health.
Treat Chronic Pain With Active Care
If you’re looking for the best support while treating chronic pain, discover Active Care Chiropractic. We have experience in treating patients with various different pain with chiropractic techniques and red light therapy treatments, to help manage their symptoms and get them on a path to becoming pain free.
We understand how difficult it can be for those living with any type of pain, that’s why we pride ourselves in making all our patients feel as comfortable and supported as possible as we begin their treatment. Whether you are after chiropractic adjustments or the innovative red light therapy treatments, we’ve got the expert chiropractors to support you. If you’re struggling with chronic pain and don’t want to wait any longer, contact our friendly team of chiropractors at Active Care today and start your journey towards a pain free life.
