For most people, pain is a nuisance that comes and goes throughout the body as it pleases. Pain can come after sleeping in an awkward position, sitting for extended periods of time, or performing unnatural repeated movements. We also experience pain that is quickly forgotten, like getting a scrape or a bruise after playing sports. Yet, for millions of Americans, chronic pain is a serious issue that affects their daily lives. If you experience consistent pain, it’s important to ask yourself this question: “At what point does acute pain become chronic?”
Acute vs. Chronic Pain
The regular type of pain we experience throughout our lives is known as acute pain. This pain is uncomfortable, unpleasant, unwanted, and can start suddenly with a sharp intensity to it. Pain lets our bodies know it has been injured and warns the body of the presence of disease or some sort of threat. Examples of acute pain include burns, cuts, broken bones, and even childbirth. The time it takes for acute pain to be experienced varies - it can persist from just a few seconds to weeks at a time. In general, acute pain does not last longer than a few months and will subside when the root cause of the pain has healed. However, acute pain that’s not relieved can lead to chronic pain.
Chronic pain is a type of pain that persists for longer than 12 weeks at a time. It can arise following a surgery or can be a symptom of an injury or illness. If you feel persistent pain for extended periods of time, it’s important to address them. Pain signals that remain active in the nervous system for extended periods of time can have very physical consequences on your body.
Quality of Life with Chronic Pain
Living with chronic pain can be a burden to those that suffer, as their quality of life can be drastically reduced. Chronic pain can be responsible for limiting mobility, muscle tension, lethargy, as well as appetite changes. Additionally, this type of pain can trigger psychological effects including depression, anxiety, and resentment as well as physical effects including arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and fibromyalgia.
Because chronic pain varies, the root cause can remain unknown. However, there is hope when you seek treatment from a trusted pain clinic, like Pain Specialty Group. If living with your chronic pain is affecting your everyday life and limits your ability to perform daily tasks, the pain has become an issue that needs to be addressed.
There are a number of methods to help you deal with your chronic pain, such as physical therapy, yoga, acupuncture, or even chiropractic treatments. Prescription medications can also be prescribed and taken to reduce chronic pain, but it’s important to remember that if you want your pain treated, seeking out an experienced pain provider is best. At Pain Specialty Group, our highly-specialized professionals are available to guide your recovery from pain. If you’re one of the over 3 million Americans who suffers from chronic pain each year, take the opportunity to eliminate or reduce your pain by booking an appointment with us today.
