How Does It Differ from “Acute” Pain?
Pain is an essential and necessary part of life, helping us to recognize potentially dangerous situations and take appropriate measures to maximize our well-being. Ideally, though, pain should be short-lived, subsiding when the danger is over. Unfortunately, some types of pain persist long after the incident that initially caused the discomfort. Such pain is commonly referred to as “chronic” pain. In 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported that about one of every five Americans suffered some type of chronic pain. What is chronic pain? How long should you expect to feel acute pain after an accident or mishap? At what point does acute pain become chronic pain?
How Is Pain Commonly Characterized?
Typically, pain is identified as either acute or chronic. As a consequence of almost any type of accident, it’s common to experience acute pain. You bump your head in a car accident or slip and fall and the nerve receptors in your head, neck, and other body parts respond by producing pain.
Most medical professionals consider pain to be chronic when it persists for at least three months. That doesn’t mean that you’re in constant discomfort, but it does mean that you experience it on a regular basis. In fact, most pain management doctors categorize pain as chronic, even when it doesn’t strike on a daily basis, as long as it lasts more than 90 days and significantly affects how you live your life. That may include:
- Regular use of painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs to address pain or discomfort
- Impact on sleep patterns
- Changes in daily activities because of frequent pain responses
What Are the Most Common Types of Chronic Pain?
Though chronic pain can affect any area of your body, these are some of the most common conditions:
- Arthritis or joint pain, particularly in older people
- Lower back pain
- Headaches, including migraines
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Nerve injury or inflammation
- Pain associated with cancer
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer from any type of chronic pain. We have the knowledge, skill, experience, and resources to effectively identify the source of your pain and help you take steps to minimize and manage your discomfort. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.
