Pain commonly results from illness, injury, or surgery. It can make daily activities such as bathing and exercising uncomfortable, but it typically improves over time as the body heals.
However, for about 20.9% of Americans, or approximately 51 million adults, pain becomes chronic, leading to mobility issues and a decline in quality of life. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer.
At LiveWell Pain Management, interventional pain specialist Nora Taha, MD, regularly treats chronic pain. Here, she explains the difference between acute and chronic pain, why chronic pain happens, and when to seek professional help.
Acute pain is any type of discomfort that occurs after an injury, illness, or surgery. Most people experience it at some time in their lives.
You may develop acute pain after twisting your ankle, catching strep throat, or recovering from an operation, like an appendectomy. This pain typically improves within a week or two and can be managed with rest, over-the-counter pain medication, or ice and heat therapy.
Pain becomes chronic when it lasts for three months or longer. This can happen if an injury doesn’t heal or if you have an underlying medical condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia, that causes ongoing inflammation or tissue damage.
Chronic pain can also be influenced by psychological or lifestyle factors. For instance, emotional stress from depression or anxiety can worsen chronic pain, while failing to exercise regularly or carrying excess weight can place additional stress on your joints and musculoskeletal system.
Sometimes chronic pain happens without any obvious cause. Because it’s so complex and can occur for many reasons, working with a healthcare professional is the best way to achieve lasting relief.
Dr. Taha treats chronic pain caused by several conditions, including:
She also treats chronic pain after surgery. If your body doesn’t heal properly following an operation, Dr. Taha can pinpoint the source of your discomfort and make personalized treatment recommendations.
Some people with chronic pain try their best to manage symptoms alone without professional help. But research shows that untreated chronic pain can significantly impact quality of life by disrupting sleep, impairing physical function, and causing emotional stress. Those with chronic pain are also more likely to stay home, which may restrict their social and professional activities.
Dr. Taha understands these impacts, which is why she regularly works with adults from all walks of life to identify the underlying cause of chronic pain and manage it effectively. Instead of immediately turning to medication or surgery, Dr. Taha emphasizes minimally invasive care.
Depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms, she may recommend:
Many people with chronic pain benefit from several different therapies. Dr. Taha monitors your symptoms at regular check-ups and adjusts your care plan as needed to support ongoing pain relief and improved mobility.
If you experience persistent knee pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, or other chronic pain, know that you aren’t alone. After reviewing your health history, asking about your symptoms, performing an exam, and ordering diagnostic imaging, Dr. Taha can help you feel better.
To learn more, call the nearest LiveWell Pain Management office in Elmwood Park, Englewood, or Paramus, New Jersey, or request an appointment online.
