Understanding, diagnosing and treating chronic pain

Chronic pain affects millions of people around the world. Unlike acute pain, which has an identifiable cause and usually subsides after treatment, chronic pain persists for more than three months, weakening the quality of life and affecting the physical and emotional health of those who suffer from it. Understanding this phenomenon is key, both for those who suffer from it and for health professionals.

Chronic pain persists continuously or intermittently for at least three months. It can appear after an injury or surgery, although in some cases, it has no obvious cause. This type of pain can manifest itself in different parts of the body, such as the back, joints, or even in specific areas such as the head or abdomen. Its persistent nature makes chronic pain a difficult condition to treat and diagnose.

Chronic pain is usually related to conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, neuropathic pain, among others. Furthermore, this type of pain not only affects physically, but also emotionally and psychologically, since its persistence can cause anxiety, depression and profoundly affect the quality of life.

Types of Chronic Pain

There are several types of chronic pain, some of which include:

1. Neuropathic pain: It is caused by injuries or diseases that affect the nervous system. Patients often describe it as a burning, tingling, or electric sensation.
2. Musculoskeletal Pain: Common in the back and joints, it is often associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.
3. Oncological Pain: In the case of people with cancer, the pain can be chronic due to tumor growth or treatments such as chemotherapy.

Causes and Risk Factors

Chronic pain can be the result of various medical conditions. Among the main causes are:

• Previous injuries poorly treated.
• Chronic health conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes.
• Neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.
• Changes in brain activity, which can “learn” to perceive stimuli as painful.

In addition, there are risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing chronic pain, such as:

• Age: The risk of chronic pain increases with age.
• Sex: Women are more likely to suffer from certain painful conditions, such as fibromyalgia.
• Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety and depression can influence the perception and persistence of pain.

Impact on Quality of Life

Chronic pain has a significant impact on patients’ daily lives. It not only limits mobility and physical abilities, but also affects psychologically. People with chronic pain often experience fatigue, sleep problems, and mood swings. In addition, the emotional impact is considerable, since uncertainty about your problem can lead to anxiety, social isolation and depression.

Diagnosis and Evaluation of Chronic Pain

Diagnosing chronic pain can be complicated due to the variability in symptoms and responses of each individual. Doctors often use tools such as pain assessment questionnaires and detailed physical examinations to assess the intensity, duration, and frequency of pain. They may also perform imaging tests, such as MRIs and CT scans, to identify any possible physical causes.

Treatments and Management Strategies

The management of chronic pain requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical, therapeutic and self-care options.

1. Pharmacological Treatment: Medications are usually the first resort. Among the most common are analgesics, anti-inflammatories, antidepressants and anticonvulsants, which can help reduce the sensation of pain.
2. Physical Therapies and Rehabilitation: Specific exercises can improve mobility and reduce pain in some areas. Hot and cold therapies, massage, and acupuncture can also provide relief.
3. Psychological Interventions: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and stress management techniques are effective in managing pain by teaching patients to change their emotional response to pain.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Healthy eating, moderate physical activity, and stress reduction are essential for those suffering from chronic pain. Lifestyle changes, combined with the aforementioned therapeutic options, can significantly improve quality of life.

New Approaches in the Treatment of Chronic Pain

In recent years, science has made progress in developing innovative treatments for chronic pain. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and neuromodulation are examples of treatments that seek to relieve pain non-invasively. Mindfulness therapy and relaxation techniques have also gained popularity as adjuncts to pain management.