Chronic pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care, and it has been linked to deficits in function resulting in mobility impairments, self-care impairments, inability to perform job duties, mental health issues, dependence on opioids and poor perceived health or reduced quality of life. Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for a long period of time or is constantly recurring.

Pain management providers can treat a wide variety of chronic pain conditions involving:

• Lower back pain
• Upper back pain
• Neck pain
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Nerve pain
• Muscle pain
• Sports-related injuries
• Work-related injuries
• Cancer-related pain

There are many different types of treatments that can be utilized to treat these and other chronic pain conditions, and the most important idea to realize is that a multimodal (utilizing multiple techniques or medications) approach is best for chronic pain as it can be complex.

To develop treatment plans and prevention strategies, chronic pain needs to be understood in the context of social, biological, psychological and physical factors. Ochsner pain management doctors are well-versed in these aspects that contribute to the pain and can tailor treatment based on the patient’s needs.

Treatment Options for Chronic Pain

A multimodal approach may include non-narcotic medications specific to certain conditions and physical therapy. Other treatment options include:

• Chiropractic care
• Acupuncture
• Massage
• Psychiatry
• Interventional techniques including injections and other procedures.

Chronic pain may certainly influence a patient’s mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, poor sleep and fear. It is important to consider coping strategies such as:

• Relaxation techniques
• Meditation
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Yoga and Pilates
• Tai chi

Occasionally, assistance from a psychologist or psychiatrist may be warranted as our mental health is closely connected to the pain we may feel.

There may be a limited role for opioid use intermittently in the treatment of pain, more particularly for acute pain, although no one approach can be used as a sole treatment option.

In recent years, there have been many advancements in the field of pain management. As more research unfolds, pain management providers will have even more tools to treat pain.

Ways To Manage Chronic Pain

There are always the simple staples that have a positive effect on your body and reduce its pain.

1. A general healthy, active lifestyle including exercise and a healthy diet will certainly aid chronic pain and help prevent pain flare-ups.
2. Proper sleep allows our bodies to recharge and recover, and poor sleep quality can prolong painful conditions.
3. Smoking, also will influence your body’s response to pain by increasing your pain sensitivity and compromising blood flow to vital organs and the musculoskeletal system.

These basic principles can have a significant effect on a patient’s pain control, and pain management providers can educate their patients further on these principles and guide them to obtain pain relief.

In conclusion, pain management is a service that can provide patients with the knowledge and treatments to address the chronic pain that is affecting their quality of life. A consultation with a pain management doctor or provider can change a person’s life if pain is stopping them from living their life to the fullest.