What to do when your chronic pain gets worse
What to do when your chronic pain gets worse
Living with chronic pain presents a daily set of challenges. When that pain suddenly intensifies, it can be disheartening and frightening. You might feel like you're back at square one, and the frustration can be overwhelming. It’s important to remember that fluctuations in pain are common, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Understanding why your pain may be worsening and knowing what steps to take can empower you to regain control and find relief.
This guide will walk you through what chronic pain is, potential reasons for flare-ups and the effective treatment strategies available to help you manage your symptoms. Living with worsening pain is not your only option, and taking proactive steps is the first move toward a more comfortable life.
What is chronic pain?
First, it’s helpful to understand what separates chronic pain from acute pain. Acute pain is your body’s normal response to an injury or illness, like a broken bone or a cut. It’s a signal that something is wrong, and it typically subsides as your body heals.
Chronic pain, on the other hand, is pain that persists for six months or longer, even after the initial injury has healed. It can result from an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis or nerve damage, but sometimes the cause is unknown. This persistent pain can impact every aspect of your life, from your ability to work and socialize to your mental and emotional well-being.
Why is my chronic pain getting worse?
An increase in chronic pain can be triggered by a variety of factors. Identifying the root cause is a critical step in developing an effective management plan. Some common reasons for a flare-up include:
Changes in activity levels: Both overexertion and a sudden decrease in activity can lead to increased pain. Pushing your body too hard can strain muscles and joints, while inactivity can cause stiffness and weakness, making you more susceptible to pain.
Increased stress: The connection between mind and body is powerful. Emotional and psychological stress can cause your muscles to tense up and can heighten your body’s sensitivity to pain. A difficult week at work or personal struggles can directly translate into physical discomfort.
Poor sleep: Sleep is when your body repairs itself. If you’re not getting enough quality sleep, your body doesn't have the chance to recover, which can lower your pain threshold and make your symptoms feel more intense.
Changes in weather: Some people find that their pain worsens with changes in temperature, humidity or barometric pressure. While the science is still evolving, many patients with arthritis and other conditions report more pain during cold, damp weather.
Underlying medical conditions: Sometimes, an increase in pain can signal a change in an existing condition or the development of a new one. It's important not to dismiss a significant change in your symptoms.
When to seek professional help
While some pain fluctuations can be managed at home, it's crucial to consult a professional if your pain worsens significantly or doesn't improve. A pain management specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
At DFW Interventional Pain Institute, Dr. Edrick Lopez and our staff take the time to listen to you, review your medical history and imaging and perform a thorough physical exam. This comprehensive evaluation ensures we understand the full picture of your pain, which allows us to develop the most effective treatment strategy.
Exploring your treatment options
Modern pain management offers a wide range of treatments that go beyond just medication. A holistic plan may incorporate several approaches to address your pain from multiple angles.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy is often a cornerstone of chronic pain management. A skilled therapist can design a customized exercise program to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. This not only helps reduce pain but also prevents future injuries.
Medications
Medications can be a valuable tool for managing pain flare-ups. Options may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications. Your doctor will work with you to find the right medication and dosage to provide relief with minimal side effects.
Interventional procedures
For more persistent pain, interventional procedures can offer significant relief. These minimally invasive treatments target the source of the pain directly. Some common procedures include:
Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain in specific joints. For migraines, Botox injections have proven to be an effective treatment.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): This cutting-edge therapy uses your body's own platelets to promote healing in injured tissues, which can be particularly helpful for joint pain and arthritis.
Psychological support
Living with chronic pain can take a toll on your mental health. Psychological support, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness practices, can help you develop coping strategies, manage stress and change the way your brain perceives pain signals.
The importance of lifestyle adjustments
Your daily habits play a significant role in managing chronic pain. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference in your overall well-being.
Diet: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation throughout your body.
Exercise: Gentle, low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can improve mobility and reduce pain. It's important to find an activity you enjoy and start slowly.
Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment.
Stress management: Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your day, such as deep breathing, meditation, or spending time in nature.
How DFW Interventional Pain Institute can help
At DFW Interventional Pain Institute, our philosophy is that everyone should have the ability to live their best life. Dr. Edrick Lopez, a double board-certified, Harvard-trained interventional pain management physician, has helped thousands of patients find relief from conditions like back pain, neck pain, joint pain and migraines.
We're committed to creating a comprehensive treatment plan that's tailored to your unique condition, lifestyle and goals. Our holistic approach may include physical therapy, medications, advanced procedures and lifestyle guidance to help you live your best life.
Take the next step toward relief
If your chronic pain has worsened, don't lose hope. There are effective strategies and dedicated professionals like Dr. Lopez ready to help you on your journey to feeling better. By understanding the potential causes, seeking expert care and embracing a holistic treatment approach, you can take control of your pain and improve your quality of life.
Contact us at DFW Interventional Pain Institute today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you create a personalized plan to get you back to doing the things you love.
