Finding Meaningful Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain is one of the most frustrating conditions to live with, especially since it is difficult to find effective treatment. Recognizing chronic pain can sometimes be difficult; how can you tell the difference between pain and chronic pain? The answer is actually quite simple. Chronic pain refers to pain that lasts longer than three months, which is longer than it would take for an injury to heal. Regular pain refers to an injury-related cause, whereas chronic pain does not go away on its own. Chronic pain can be caused by different sources but is most commonly the result of nerve dysfunction or damage, or inflammation.
Finding effective chronic pain management can take some time for patients. First of all, getting a clear diagnosis can be more difficult than it is for other conditions. Oftentimes, the cause of chronic pain is not visible through traditional imaging modalities, meaning the diagnosis is reliant on physical examinations and reviewing the patient’s symptoms.
What Does Chronic Pain Treatment Look Like?
Depending on the patient’s cause of chronic pain, their doctor will recommend a unique treatment plan. Oftentimes, treatment will begin with a range of conservative therapies including physical therapy, pain medication, and lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes that the doctor may recommend can include diet changes, weight loss, increased physical activity, limiting drinking, and quitting smoking. Excess weight, unhealthy eating habits, and excessive smoking and drinking can exacerbate chronic pain. Switching to healthier lifestyle choices is an excellent way to prevent chronic pain from worsening.
If conservative therapies do not effectively manage chronic pain, patients should revisit their doctor to learn about the next steps. Depending on where patients are experiencing their discomfort, treatments can vary. Finding a quality Interventional Pain Management Doctor is integral to the success of your treatment. At BEST Health System, we partner with in-demand pain management specialists who are dedicated to helping patients find the care they deserve.
Spinal Cord Stimulation with BEST Health System
Spinal cord stimulation is a modern treatment option for patients with chronic pain conditions. Whether you suffer from chronic pain from a past injury or something genetic, spinal cord stimulation may help you find relief.
If you are unsure about spinal cord stimulation or don’t know if it is the right option for you, BEST offers trial programs. Our trial programs allow patients to test the potential of spinal cord stimulation to see if it helps minimize their pain.
Spinal cord stimulators are modern, implanted devices that send tiny electrical impulses to the spinal cord. This modifies and masks pain signals, helping patients with chronic pain live more comfortable, and pain-free lives. These devices are minimally invasive and removable, making them an excellent choice for anyone wanting to avoid invasive surgery while seeking meaningful relief.
BEST Health System partners with specialists across the country to improve access to quality chronic pain management. Find a specialist near you today.