Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, headaches, and it can vary in how long it lasts. While chronic pain can be difficult to treat, there are a variety of options available.
- Arthritis Pain. Arthritis is a common cause of chronic pain. There are two main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear of the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. Symptoms of arthritis pain include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Treatment options for arthritis pain include pain medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
- Fibromyalgia Pain. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and fatigue. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to changes in the brain and central nervous system. Symptoms of fibromyalgia pain include muscle pain, joint pain, headache, and fatigue. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Treatment options for fibromyalgia pain include pain medication, physical therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Headache Pain. Headaches are a common type of chronic pain. The most common type of headache is a tension headache, which is caused by muscle tension. Other types of headaches include migraines, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches. Symptoms of headache pain include throbbing, pulsing, and a feeling of pressure. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Treatment options for headache pain include pain medication, relaxation techniques, and physical therapy.
- Low Back Pain. Low back pain is a common type of chronic pain. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis. Symptoms of back pain include muscle aches, stiffness, and pain that radiates down the legs. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Treatment options for low back pain include pain medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
- Neuropathic Pain. Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that is caused by damage to the nervous system. The most common cause of neuropathic pain is diabetes, but it can also be caused by injuries, infections, and tumors. Symptoms of neuropathic pain include burning, tingling, and numbness. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Treatment options for neuropathic pain include pain medication, physical therapy, and electrical stimulation.
- Post-operative Pain. Post-operative pain is a type of chronic pain that is caused by surgery. Postsurgical pain can be acute, which means it comes on suddenly and lasts for a short time. Or it can be chronic, which means it lasts for a long time. Symptoms of postsurgical pain include throbbing, aching, and burning. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Treatment options for post-operative pain include pain medication, physical therapy, and massage therapy.
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition that causes pain in the jaw joint. Treatment options for TMJ pain include pain medication, physical therapy, and surgery.