You don't have to live with chronic pain

The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that over one-fifth of adults experienced chronic pain at some point. Approximately 7% suffer from high-impact chronic pain, with symptoms severe enough to significantly hinder their daily activities.

At Chiropractic-Works and Wellness clinic in Bicester, we utilize our extensive skills to assist patients dealing with chronic pain issues. The spine is often the root of many chronic pain problems, making a chiropractic practice an ideal choice for treatment, even when surgery isn’t necessary. Typically, the most effective solution involves conservative treatments that yield results.

Common Causes of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can arise from something as simple as a cut or impact injury, which usually leads to short-term pain that improves within days. However, chronic pain is characterized by its intermittent or persistent nature, lasting 12 weeks or longer despite medical intervention.

Pain doesn’t always have a clear origin; it may begin without any identifiable injury or medical condition. Chronic pain can develop from nerve issues that persist beyond the physical reasons for the pain or from degenerative conditions that do not heal, making it challenging to treat.

While there isn’t a definitive list of chronic pain causes, conditions involving the spine often include:

- Congenital issues like scoliosis
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Obesity
- Postural problems
- Age-related degenerative conditions of the spine
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Occupations requiring prolonged sitting or standing

In some cases, chronic pain may arise from a combination of factors rather than a single identifiable cause. This enduring pain can lead to a cycle of suffering that negatively impacts both mental and physical health, often resulting in mood swings and depression, which can exacerbate the pain experience.

Chronic Pain Treatments

When a clear cause for chronic pain is identified, targeted treatments can be implemented. Typically, we adopt a conservative approach to managing pain symptoms. This may include over-the-counter pain medications and hot or cold compresses, alongside stretching or strengthening exercises to enhance your body’s load management capacity.

Moderate physical activities like walking and swimming can provide significant relief for chronic pain, even if it feels counterintuitive to engage in these activities while in pain. We recommend therapeutic levels of activity, avoiding exercises that worsen symptoms.

For more information, schedule a consultation with one of our chiropractor at Chiropractic Works and Wellness. You can reach us by phone or through our appointment request link. Schedule your visit today!