Chronic Pain

While there are many types and causes of pain, chronic pain includes all pain that has lasted for more than four to six weeks. Chronic pain can be cyclical, and it can have peaks, valleys and even brief periods of remission.

There isn't always a single cause for chronic pain, and it can result from various factors, including:

1. Injury or Trauma: Chronic pain can develop from an initial injury, such as a back injury or a severe infection. Even after the initial injury heals, the nerves may remain in a heightened state, continuing to send pain signals to the brain.

2. Medical Conditions: Conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, nerve damage (neuropathy), multiple sclerosis, endometriosis, and certain types of cancer can lead to persistent pain.

3. Nervous System Changes: Sometimes, the nervous system itself can malfunction, causing chronic pain. Conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) involve dysfunction in the nervous system, leading to chronic pain even without ongoing injury.

4. Surgery or Medical Treatments: Surgeries or medical treatments may result in nerve damage or changes in the body that lead to chronic pain.

5. Psychological Factors: Emotional stress, anxiety, depression, or past traumatic experiences can exacerbate or contribute to the perception of pain, making it more intense or difficult to manage.

6. Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, poor posture, obesity, and poor sleep habits can contribute to chronic pain or make it worse.

Chiropractic care is an excellent choice for helping address and even resolve symptoms related to chronic pain.