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All about chronic pain management

All about chronic pain management

Pain is a common occurrence with increasing age, but pain due to an injury or underlying medical condition can be experienced by anyone. This pain, however, is temporary since it alleviates as the injury heals or the condition is treated. Having said that, chronic pain does not ease with time and causes severe discomfort.

Let’s understand pain by looking at its common symptoms and causes, along with effective ways for pain management.

Signs of chronic pain
Chronic pain syndrome can lead to mild pain in some people, whereas it can be extremely unbearable for others. Some of the main symptoms are:

  • Stiffness in the body
  • Soreness in the affected areas
  • A throbbing or burning sensation
  • Searing pain

Other factors can also cause chronic pain, leading to mood swings and a lack of energy and motivation. Loss of appetite or having trouble sleeping are also symptoms of chronic pain syndrome, which can cause weight loss or irritation and anxiety throughout the day.

Causes of chronic pain
More than 1.5 billion people experience chronic pain, and this is one of the most common causes of long-term disability in the country. Also, although the causes of chronic stress differ from one person to another, some of the most common reasons are mentioned here:

  • Pain in the lower back
    This type of pain is very common, but it is often ignored as a normal occurrence with age or due to other physical activity. However, leaving it untreated can lead to the condition becoming a serious issue. If the pain in the lower back has been consistent for 3 months or more, it requires medical attention and treatment for pain management.
  • Pain due to cancer
    A person suffering from cancer experiences pain in the bones, organs, or nerves, which is mostly due to the cancerous tumor. In addition to the tumor, some treatment methods can be a cause of pain, causing a patient’s hands and feet to become numb. These changes in the nerves are what may cause chronic pain and severe discomfort.
  • Pain due to arthritis
    Stress plays a major role in the development and progression of conditions like arthritis. A person suffering from arthritis can also be affected by chronic pain syndrome, and the most basic pain management technique in such cases is taking hot or cold compresses.

Tips for pain management
Here are some effective tips for pain management:

  • Meditation
    Meditation works wonders for emotional as well as physical health. It helps the mind and muscles relax, and maintaining the right posture also helps alleviate or prevent pain.
  • Regular physical exercise
    Exercise is the best way to keep the body fit and release natural endorphins for pain management. Exercising regularly boosts muscle strength and helps one stay in shape, blocking pain signals and reducing the risk of health issues.
  • Reduce stress
    Stress is a major cause of many diseases, both physical and mental. Some of the most common ways to beat stress are to listen to calming music, take up an art form, or indulge in hobbies to release the happy hormones and help in pain management.

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