DECEMBER 2024
What is chronic pain, and what causes it?
How do I know if my pain is chronic?
Will I ever feel “back to normal?”
These may be questions you ask yourself if you’re experiencing pain.
Pain can be very subjective. It is a spectrum that is different for every person. Let’s say two people state they have back pain and are asked to rate it on a scale from 1 to 10. The first person may say their pain is only a 3, but the second person may say their pain is a 10. Many factors can contribute to someone’s pain tolerance.
The two main types of pain we experience are acute and chronic — but there are significant differences to note between the two.
Acute pain is sudden pain that can be caused by injury or trauma. It can usually be relieved with proper treatment, and the pain will lessen or stop as healing continues. Examples of acute pain can be:
Chronic pain occurs when pain is ongoing and lasts longer than 6 months. It can continue even after an injury has healed or gone away. What causes chronic pain can vary widely, but common examples include:
When chronic pain feels overwhelming, it’s crucial to take proactive steps toward relief. Start by contacting a healthcare provider who specializes in pain management. They can help identify the underlying causes of your pain and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
If pain becomes unmanageable, interventions like physical therapy, medications, or minimally invasive procedures may provide relief. At Nura, we believe in addressing pain holistically and finding solutions tailored to each individual’s needs. No matter what, help is available — you never have to face chronic pain alone.
Chronic pain is a complex and multifaceted issue. There are so many factors that contribute to it. When treating chronic pain, it is not a “one size fits all” approach. With pain being so subjective and unique to each person, it is essential to use a comprehensive approach when addressing it.
An effective strategy when dealing with chronic pain is addressing the 4 P’s – Pharmacological, Physical, Psychological, and Procedural. This holistic approach addresses the physical, mental, and procedural aspects of pain management.
Refers to the use of medications to manage pain, including over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription drugs, and — with discretion and depending on the situation — opioids. At Nura, we prioritize exploring non-opioid options whenever possible.
Includes physical therapy, exercise, posture correction, and other treatments to target the physical source of pain. At Nura, our expert physical therapists specialize in pain management and offer options like saltwater pool therapy to build strength and flexibility
Involves addressing the emotional and cognitive aspects of pain. Our team of behavioral health specialists will help you learn coping skills, gain a better pain perception, and reduce stress.
Includes minimally invasive procedures that can be used to treat pain, such as injections, nerve blocks, or surgical interventions. We offer a wide range of solutions proven to have long-term benefits.
It can be hard to understand why and how pain becomes chronic. That is because it can be different for everyone. Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming – but you don’t have to go through it alone. Finding the right support is critical in helping someone overcome pain, and that includes the right care team.
At Nura, we have years of experience diagnosing and treating many chronic pain conditions. If you or a loved one are ready to begin the journey to pain relief – call 763-537-6000 or request an appointment using our easy online form today!
