Here are some universal truths we all live by — whether we like it or not: you reap what you sow, change is the only constant, action speaks louder than words and pain is a part of life.
That last one is…painful. Unfortunately, pain is a daily reality for many of us. According to the CDC, 20% of the adult population suffers from chronic pain.1 Although chronic pain gets a lot of attention, acute pain is the leading cause of emergency room visits. Either way, lots of folks are in pain out there!
Whether you’ve been experiencing continual discomfort or have recently had an injury, knowing the difference between chronic and acute pain will guide you to the appropriate treatment to get relief.
The multidisciplinary team at New Jersey Institute for Pain Relief treats all types of acute and chronic pain. We’ve got you covered whether you need chiropractic care, orthopedic care or physical therapy. You don’t have to be in pain! Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn what we can do for you.
Read on to learn the difference between acute and chronic pain, their causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
What is acute pain?
You can compare acute pain to an alarm system. It usually signals that there is tissue damage. A sudden, sharp feeling characterizes this type of pain. Generally, a single event causes it. Your body’s saying, “Something’s going on here!”
For example, when your elbow decides to introduce itself to the corner of a table and you feel a shot of painful electricity. You wonder why it’s called the “funny bone”. Stepping on a tack while barefoot or spraining your ankle while trail running are more examples. Even post-surgical discomfort can be classified as acute pain. The pain from stepping on a tack is short-lived. The pain from breaking an elbow or spraining your ankle could last weeks after the injury.
Either way, acute pain will subside with the appropriate treatment. Once the injury resolves, the pain disappears, and you can return to business as usual.
Symptoms of acute pain
Intense and localized
There may be redness or swelling
Usually goes away after the injury heals
What are common causes of acute pain?
A sudden injury caused by a fall or a car accident
Tissue damage caused by a burn or cut
Certain infections
Post-operative pain
How can acute pain be treated?
For acute pain, you’ll want to immediately treat the cause and promote further healing. Treatment focuses on reducing the pain, repairing function, and keeping the injury from worsening. Read on for some common approaches:
Chiropractic care: Chiropractic adjustments can be highly effective for reducing acute pain. By realigning the spine and joints, this type of care helps to lessen nerve pressure, reduce inflammation, and restore mobility. For example, one study found that chiropractic care was very effective for patients with acute neck pain (ANP).2
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy plays a vital role in the recovery process. It’s like a personal GPS for your body. Just like a GPS helps you navigate roads and avoid getting lost, a physical therapist helps your body back to the right path after injury using targeted exercises and rehabilitation techniques.
Medication: Sometimes, you may need short-term use of medication to manage acute pain. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen is typically used in these cases. However, a stronger pain medication or muscle relaxant may sometimes be necessary for temporary relief.
Orthopedic Interventions: When the pain results from a fracture or dislocation, orthopedic care may be needed — such as setting a broken bone or a minor surgical procedure. Proper orthopedic management ensures that the injury heals correctly.
New Jersey Institute for Pain Relief has got you covered for caring for your pain. We offer chiropractic care using the latest technology, equipment, and treatment methods. Our orthopedic team offers surgical and recovery treatment options for your pain. Our physical therapy team will offer a personalized recovery program with the latest rehabilitation techniques. Whether you were in a car accident or a work-related injury, we’re in your corner. Contact us to learn how we can help you.
What is chronic pain?
On the other hand, chronic pain persists like a bad smell that just won’t go away. Chronic pain sticks around long after the injury or condition has healed (usually 3-6 months). For these unfortunate people, the pain is an alarm they can’t turn off even if they’ve had it treated.
Chronic pain can be the result of an ongoing condition like fibromyalgia or nerve damage. But it can also be the result of acute pain that wasn’t treated appropriately. Unlike acute pain, which is temporary, chronic pain can negatively impact your quality of life.
Symptoms of chronic pain
Lasting and can vary in intensity
Dull, throbbing, or burning sensation
Sleep problems and mood changes due to regular discomfort
What are common causes of chronic pain?
Chronic conditions such as lower back pain, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and migraines
Nerve damage caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome or, chemotherapy for cancer treatment
Arthritis from joint inflammation
Untreated — or improperly treated — acute injuries that lead to ongoing pain
How can chronic pain be treated?
Chronic pain requires a more long-term approach. Since this pain lasts beyond the usual healing time, treatment focuses on reducing the pain and improving the overall quality of life for the patient. The following are some common approaches to treat chronic pain:
Lifestyle changes: Some adjustments may need to be made to your daily routine to manage chronic pain. Stress management techniques like mindfulness and meditation can help to reduce pain levels and improve your overall well-being. Regular exercise and a healthy diet cannot be ignored…especially if you weren’t exercising or eating well in your pre-chronic pain life.
Psychological support: Chronic pain doesn’t just impact the body; it also affects the mind. Counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and support groups are essential in addressing the mental health challenges that can come along with long-term pain. Patients can improve their outcomes by managing depression, anxiety, and stress.
Long-term medications: Although many people would rather avoid this, sometimes long-term medication may be necessary to get the results you want. Some of these include anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve pain medication, or even low-dose antidepressants to manage pain perception.
Multidisciplinary approach: As with most problems, a holistic, multifaceted approach is often the best solution — like the approach we use at New Jersey Institute for Pain Relief. We can achieve more effective, lasting relief by attacking the pain from multiple angles. Chiropractic care could be used to maintain spinal health. Physical therapy could be implemented to improve strength and flexibility. And pain management methods could be used to control discomfort.
Reclaim your life: Don’t let pain hold you back
Pain, whether acute or chronic, can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right care and treatment approach, you can manage pain effectively and return to the activities you love.
At the New Jersey Institute for Pain Relief, we specialize in comprehensive pain management through chiropractic care, orthopedics, physical therapy, and tailored treatment plans. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to helping you find relief and get back to living a full and active life. Don’t let pain dictate your life. Reach out to our team today, and let us help you take the first step on your journey to recovery and a pain-free future.
References:
1). Dahlhamer J, Lucas J, Zelaya C, et al. Prevalence of chronic pain and high-impact chronic pain among adults—United States, 2016. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018;67:1001–6.
2). Haneline, M. & Cooperstein, R. (2009). Chiropractic care for patients with acute neck pain: results of a pragmatic practice-based feasibility study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, Dec; 8(4): 143–155.
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