Pain, Pain, Go Away!
By Donna Stark
If you have ever stubbed your toe into a wooden desk, you know what a minute or two of pain feels like. But, if you have ever hurt your back, you know what days, or weeks, of pain can feel like. Pain is the body's way of telling you that something is not right. Some cases of pain (as in the stubbed toe) are acute, or short-lived, while others are chronic and can last for weeks or maybe even months. Obviously, no matter which one you are dealing with, you still want to feel better, don't you? So, it's good to know the best way to treat both.
Acute Pain
Acute pain is pain that starts suddenly and will generally feel pretty intense. It's the pain you experience when you stub a toe, hit your head, cut your hand, or break a leg. This type of pain can last just a few minutes or can hang around for a couple of days, but the good thing about it is that it will go away.
Since there are many different causes for acute pain, there are many different ways to treat it. If you can't treat it on your own with bandages, rest, ice, heat, or over-the-counter medications, you should definitely see a doctor for help. Your doctor may prescribe imaging tests, physical therapy, or some other form of treatment so your body can heal as quickly as possible.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain, on the other hand, is a lot different. It's a pain that lasts for weeks, months, and sometimes, even years. But chronic pain isn't just about the pain. It can also have a significant impact on the quality of your life and your mental health. Here are just a few examples of what could easily be classified as chronic pain.
- Back problems
- Migraines
- Arthritis
- Nerve damage
- Fibromyalgia
Chronic pain sufferers will generally need the help of a medical professional and their treatment will depend on several factors, such as the underlying cause, the intensity of pain, the length of time it has been around, and the impact it has had on the patient's quality of life. The patient may also need to see several different doctors during the course of treatment. From their primary care doctor to their chiropractor to a physical therapist, getting better may require a team of professionals!
Pain, Pain, Go Away!
If you find yourself dealing with pain and can't seem to treat it on your own, don't be afraid to get help from a medical professional. You don't want to waste another minute of your life in pain, so take action today!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Temecula, Calif.