Pain is a universal experience, but not all pain is created equal. Yep, we’re talking about chronic pain and acute pain. Understanding the differences can help you manage your symptoms better and find the right treatment.
Acute Pain: The Short-Term Visitor
Acute pain is like that unexpected guest who shows up suddenly but doesn’t stay too long. It’s usually linked to common illnesses or injuries like cuts, sprains, or even the aftermath of surgery. The good news? Acute pain typically goes away as you heal. But be cautious—if not managed properly, it can sometimes turn into chronic pain.
Chronic Pain: The Unwanted Long-Term Guest
Now, chronic pain is a bit more complicated. If your pain sticks around for more than three months, it’s considered chronic. This type of pain can be persistent and might require help from your healthcare provider to understand the cause and find the best treatment. According to the CDC, nearly 20% (51.6 million) Americans experience chronic pain.
Effects of Chronic Pain
- Limited mobility
- Lack of energy
- Muscle fatigue or tightness
- Appetite changes
- Depression, anger, anxiety
Common Areas of Chronic Pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Foot pain
Why Chronic Pain is a Big Deal
Chronic pain doesn’t just affect your body; it can take a toll on your mental health too. Research shows that people with chronic pain are four times more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety. Women are also 21.7% more likely to experience chronic pain than men. While opioids can help manage some pain conditions, they come with serious risks like overdose. That’s why it’s crucial to explore other pain management options.
Managing Pain: What You Can Do
Managing pain effectively often requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some strategies that can help:
- Physical Therapy: Helps improve mobility and strength.
- Massage: Relieves muscle tension and promotes relaxation.
- Non-Opioid Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help manage pain.
- Meditation and Relaxation: Techniques like mindfulness can reduce pain perception.
Pain Management Services at Intermountain Health
Intermountain Health’s Pain Management team aims to reduce the stigma associated with pain, improve patient access to pain management resources, and enhance the quality of life for those affected by pain. We offer a comprehensive approach to treating both acute and chronic pain, involving a variety of specialists and treatment methods.
What We Offer
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with physicians, nurses, dietitians, physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialists, anesthesiologists, pharmacists, behavioral health experts, and physical therapists.
- Individualized Treatment Plans: Tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
- Multiple Methods for Treating Pain: Including physical therapy, massage, non-opioid medications, exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques.
- Behavioral Health Counseling: To address the psychological effects of chronic pain.
- Interventional Procedures: For more targeted pain relief.
- Medications for Opioid Use Disorder: To help manage addiction and provide safer pain relief options.
Understanding the differences between acute and chronic pain is the first step in managing your symptoms effectively. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider to explore your treatment options. You deserve to live a happy, productive life, even with chronic pain.