Whether it’s because of an increase in reporting and diagnosis or there are actually more incidents these days, chronic pain seems to have become a rather prevalent condition. In fact, the American Academy of Pain Medicine reports that 1.5 million people across the globe suffer from chronic pain, and of course, this number is based on reported incidents, which means there are likely more people suffering from chronic pain than are known. And the good news for those who seek help to deal with their chronic pain conditions is that there are many different treatment options. Chronic pain conditions could include hereditary ailments like arthritis, pain disorders like migraines and fibromyalgia, and even lingering symptoms from accident and injury. And the success of particular treatments will likely differ from one patient to the next. But here are just a few potential therapies to consider.
The first place people usually turn when dealing with chronic pain is to pharmaceuticals. In many cases, pain killers can be effective at providing temporary relief from symptoms. But they don’t tend to be the best long-term solution. If patients are able to use medication intermittently to cope with the worst pain episodes, pharmaceuticals may provide a viable ongoing option. But you probably don’t want to add drug addiction to your list of problems when you’re already dealing with chronic pain. Luckily, there are other options to explore.
In some cases, simple therapies like the use of hot or cold compresses could provide the measure of relief you need to function. But many people coping with chronic pain need further options to manage their conditions. And surgery might be possible in some instances, but most people would prefer to avoid surgical procedures and the risks they entail. One good option that many chronic pain sufferers find useful is changing up their diet and their physical fitness routine.
Engaging in physical activities when you’re suffering from chronic pain might seem counterintuitive, but in fact, many patients have found that adding exercise to their daily routine actually helps them to reduce pain, perhaps due to the feel-good endorphins that moderate to intense physical activity can produce. And your diet can be a major contributor to feelings of good health, or vice versa. Losing weight could also be a factor, depending on your particular condition.
There are also a variety of newer therapies doctors are trying out, such as implants that provide electrical stimulation. Such measures have proven effective with conditions like chronic migraines and back pain. And of course, you may want to visit a facility like Hope Family of Pain Centers that specialize in dealing with chronic pain conditions. With a variety of treatment options at your disposal, you can find ways to manage your particular condition. The important thing to remember is that chronic pain is not all in your head. It’s a very real occurrence that can have a significant impact on your life if you don’t learn to manage it. And when you get it under control you can get your life back.