Understanding Chronic Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Strategies

Dr.Rakesh Pandit, 2 mins read

Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for an extended period, typically over three months. It can affect any part of the body and has numerous potential causes. Chronic pain is a common condition and is among the top reasons for which people seek medical care. The pain may be constant or intermittent.

This type of pain can greatly impact physical, mental, and emotional well-being, which is why guidance of a doctor is essential. A healthcare provider can help you to get a cure for chronic pain. A strategic approach to chronic pain management involves early evaluation, conservative treatment when symptoms are mild or moderate, and escalation of therapy as required.

Common Types of Chronic Pain:

• Arthritis or joint pain, such as knee pain
• Back pain, especially in the lower back
• Cancer pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Headaches, including migraines
• Neck pain
• Neuropathic pain (nerve pain)

Causes of Chronic Pain:

• Neuropathic pain: Nerve pain caused by damage to the nervous system, including conditions like peripheral neuropathy, pinched nerves, and trigeminal neuralgia.
• Musculoskeletal pain: Pain that impacts bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, or tendons, often due to injuries or wear-and-tear over time, such as with tendonitis.
• Visceral pain: Pain originating from internal organs, including the heart, lungs, bladder, reproductive organs, and digestive system.
• Inflammatory pain: Pain caused by tissue damage and inflammation, often due to chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
• Central sensitization: This type of pain occurs because of changes in the central nervous system that increase sensitivity to pain and other sensations. This can be accompanied by increased sensitivity to lights, sounds, and emotions.

Symptoms:

Chronic pain can range from mild to severe and often persists beyond the usual recovery period. Pain may feel shooting, burning, aching, or electrical, and may also cause soreness, tightness, or stiffness in the affected area.

It also often contributes to other conditions, such as generalised anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, fatigue, insomnia, and mood swings.

Diagnosis:

A healthcare provider may conduct a physical exam and recommend tests to diagnose the cause of chronic pain, including:

• Blood and urine tests
• Electromyography (EMG) to measure muscle activity
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRI scans
• Nerve conduction studies to check nerve response
• Reflex and balance tests
• Spinal fluid tests

Management of Chronic Pain:

• Behaviour modification: Following a nutritious diet, managing stress, and staying physically active.
• Pain medications: Common options include aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and naproxen.
• Physical therapy: Therapy involving stretching, manipulation, and pain-relief exercises to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
• Psychological therapies: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can address symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can also be beneficial.
• Additional therapies: Heat and cold therapy, acupuncture, and ultrasound stimulation are also potential options.

To get the best cure for your chronic pain. Schedule an appointment with a specialist, at Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital in Dwarka.