“Pain is not only a highly noxious experience per se, it can also have an overwhelmingly negative effect on nearly every other aspect of life, including our mood & capacity to function in daily roles. This negative impact has been found to span every age & every type & source of pain which has been studied. According to a study by the WHO, individuals who live with persistent pain are four times more likely than those without pain to suffer from depression or anxiety, & more than twice as likely to have difficulty working” [1]
So What is Pain Management?
Pain management which is headed by doctors who are Pain Specialists, relates to the management of all forms of pain. The various approaches incorporate: medication, injections, different types of therapy, and exercise. When you book an online or in-person appointment with a Pain Specialist, after reviewing your medical history, and asking you a number of questions, and if necessary, conducting an examination and specific tests, they will devise a holistic Personalised Treatment Plan for your pain management. This could include one or multiple modalities to help ameliorate your long-term pain issues, and get your life back into full swing.
Pain can derive from countless types of disorders, diseases and injuries, as well as the treatment of certain diseases and conditions. – And while some people’s pain only lasts for a short period of time, many suffer from chronic (long-term) pain-something which can potentially damage the body even further. – And this is why arranging to see a Pain Specialist as soon as possible, is the best course of action.
Who is a Suitable Candidate For Pain Management?
Anyone who is suffering from pain of any kind, (whether they are just experiencing it, or it is a chronic condition), is likely to benefit from a pain management plan.
The most common conditions that generate pain include:
- Arthritis and joint and muscle injuries. (Various forms of arthritis, including gout and osteoarthritis, generate extreme pain in the joints. And orthopedic injuries reduce mobility, and result in stiffness and pain
- Nerve damage (neuropathy). This can result in pain, tingling and stinging
- Autoimmune disorders. Autoimmune disorder such as Crohn’s disease and lupus, involve the immune system attacking the body
- Back injuries. Sciatica and herniated disks, are just two examples of back issues which generate pain and reduced mobility
- Chronic pain disorders. These include conditions which can generate widespread pain all over the body (for example fibromyalgia)
- This generates abdominal pain
- Facial pain. This can be due to dental issues or facial pain such as trigeminal neuralgia (TN)
- Migraines which generate pain in the neck and head
- Urinary tract problems and kidney stones. The latter create severe pain when urinating, and interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome) generates pelvic pain
Reference
[1]. Katz, N. (2002). “The Impact of Pain Management on Quality of Life.” Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.
