Chronic Pain

Almost everyone experiences aches and pains on occasion, but if your symptoms last for more than 12 weeks, it’s considered chronic. Chronic pain isn’t just uncomfortable; it can dissolve the color out of life and prevent you from participating in activities you used to love. At Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Francis Pecoraro, MD, DAPMR, SAAPMR, regularly assists men and women suffering from chronic pain. Pain relief starts here. To request your consultation, call the office or use the online booking tool today.

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain is any type of pain that lasts for longer than 12 weeks, or a period of three months. Usually, pain subsides as your body starts to heal. However, with chronic pain, your body continues to send pain signals to your brain, even after your recovery.

In addition to being uncomfortable, chronic pain can limit your mobility and decrease your flexibility and endurance. As a result, performing even routine tasks, like going to work or spending time with friends, can seem impossible. 

Are there different types of chronic pain?

Chronic pain can affect nearly any part of your body. In addition, chronic pain doesn’t always present the same symptoms; it varies depending on its severity and location. Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC regularly treats chronic pain stemming from or in the following areas:

• Lower back
• Neck
• Headaches and migraines
• Shoulder
• Hip
• Knee
• Degenerative disc disease
• Disc herniation/bulge/protrusions
• Spinal stenosis
• Arthritis
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) (also known as RSD)
• Neuropathy

It’s also possible to experience chronic pain because of nerve damage or chronic pain that an underlying disease or injury causes. Chronic pain affects an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide. 

Who is at risk of chronic pain?

Chronic pain affects people of all ages and backgrounds, but it’s especially common in older adults. In addition to age, there are other factors that may increase your risk of chronic pain, including: 

• Being a female
• Suffering an injury
• Having surgery

You’re also more likely to experience chronic pain if you’re overweight or obese. 

How do you diagnose chronic pain?

To diagnose chronic pain, Dr. Pecoraro reviews your medical history, asks you questions about your symptoms, and conducts a physical exam.

If these measures don’t provide adequate information, he might also recommend laboratory testing or diagnostic imaging such as an MRI or X-ray. Usually, these tests can help localize sources of your discomfort. 

How do you treat chronic pain?

Treatment for chronic pain depends on the source and severity of your symptoms. However, Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC recommends conservative methods of care whenever possible. 

For example, if you’re suffering from chronic pain as a result of obesity, Dr. Pecoraro might recommend regular exercise and eating a healthy well-balanced diet. If your pain is a result of arthritis or another condition that affects the joints, he might recommend physical therapy, yoga, massage, or meditation.

For chronic pain that persists even after these methods of care, more invasive treatments might be necessary. Dr. Pecoraro offers nerve blocks, corticosteroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation therapy, based on the individual's needs.  

If you require surgery, he can also refer you to a surgeon in the area for a consultation to discuss additional options.

Take action against chronic pain; make an appointment at Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.