4 Types of Chronic Pain and Its Causes

Last updated on June 8th, 2024 at 10:03 am

Every person has acute pain at some point. This pain comes with an injury or illness and typically is short-lived. When the pain persists for weeks or months, however, the individual is dealing with chronic pain, and their quality of life is negatively affected. The source of this pain must be identified and treated. What types of chronic pain are common today, and how do medical professionals address them?

Chronic Back Pain

Back pain comes in many forms. It may be the result of an injury or muscle strain or it could be caused by an illness or spinal deformity. This pain might appear anywhere from the neck to the base of the spine and could be concentrated in one area or affect a large portion of the back. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may spread to other parts of the body.

Doctors often struggle to determine the cause of the pain. However, they must figure out where it originates. Only then can they come up with a treatment plan. At times, this may involve nothing more than over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes. Other patients might need surgery. However, this pain can be addressed with the help of an experienced medical team, such as the one found at the best oklahoma pain management center.

A man sitting on a couch with his hands on his head, expressing chronic pain.

Chronic Headaches

A person with chronic headaches will experience head pain a minimum of 15 days a month for three months in a row or longer. These headaches may be the result of tension, eye strain, migraines, or cluster headaches. The treatment varies based on whether the cause of the headaches can be determined. If a cause is found, the focus turns to treating the underlying issue. If no cause is found, doctors work to manage the pain through medication and alternative treatments, such as biofeedback.

Chronic Joint Pain

Chronic joint pain is often a symptom of arthritis. However, a person should never assume that is the case until they have been diagnosed by a doctor. With the help of medical professionals, this pain can be addressed and managed. Gout and bursitis are other conditions that can bring about joint pain. Many people find they can manage the pain by making lifestyle changes or using home remedies, such as soaking in a warm bath when the pain comes on. Exercise and weight loss can also help reduce joint pain, but some people find they need topical treatments or medication. A doctor can help each person determine which path they should take.

A young woman is hugging her arms in front of her face, possibly due to chronic pain.

Chronic Nerve Pain

Ten percent of American adults suffer from chronic nerve pain, a condition known as neuropathy. Compressed and damaged nerves will cause this pain, as will the loss of the nerve’s protective sheath. Sciatica is one type of chronic nerve pain, and carpel tunnel syndrome is another. Diabetics often suffer from neuropathy, and men and women undergoing chemotherapy might find they have nerve pain as the treatment progresses or after it ends. Medications may be prescribed to address the symptoms, and doctors often work to treat the underlying condition, if there is one.

Nobody wants to live with chronic pain, as it can affect every part of a person’s life. If you struggle with pain regularly, see your doctor. They will work to find the source of this pain and develop a treatment plan to address it. Once it is under control, your quality of life will improve, so make the appointment today.