What is the good in going to the doctor when you don’t know what is wrong with you?
Many people, from time to time, suffer from health problems, which may pose a difficulty in their daily lives. When it comes to the issue of pain, you may have wondered about the differences in what you are feeling.
There are several pain types, and if you can distinguish between them, you may have a better chance of resolving your health issue sooner.
So, if you are wondering what types of pain there are and how to differentiate between them, read on!
Acute and Chronic Pain
Acute and chronic pain are two distinct categories of medical pain. Acute pain is typically caused by an injury or surgery and is usually time-limited, and has a healing response associated with it.
Chronic pain, on the other hand, is characterized by long-term, often debilitating pain that lasts over a prolonged period and often doesn’t have an easily identifiable source. Back pain clinics specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of chronic and acute back pain.
Their goal is to help patients reduce their pain and the functional disability associated with their pain. Common treatments include physical therapy, massage, chiropractic adjustments, and acupuncture.
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain is a type of pain caused by damage to the central nervous system. This damage can be caused by a variety of things, from physical trauma to chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer. Neuropathic pain is usually persistent, meaning that it does not go away despite repeated medical treatment.
Psychogenic Pain
Psychogenic pain is a type of chronic pain that is caused by psychological or emotional factors. This type of pain can be difficult to diagnose, as it often lacks any physical signs that can be detected through scans, blood tests, or X-Rays. Possible psychological causes of psychogenic pain may include unresolved emotional issues, childhood trauma, extreme stress, depression, or anxiety.
Often a combination of physical and psychological treatment is necessary to reduce the pain. It also helps the individual to protect against future flare-ups. Many times, psychotherapy and talk therapies can help an individual gain insight into the sources of their pain and how to better manage it.
Phantom Limb Pain
Phantom Limb Pain is a common pain type in which amputees and individuals who have had a limb amputated experience pain in a limb that is no longer there. It is caused by the brain’s confusion when it sends signals to the removed limb. This triggers the pain in the area where the limb used to be.
This pain can vary in intensity but is usually characterized as a burning, shooting, or aching sensation. It can also be accompanied by itching, cramping, or tingling. It is thought to be caused by a maladaptive neuromatrix, where neural fibers continue to sense pain even though the limb is no longer there.
Explore the Different Types of Pain in Your Body
Pain is a complex experience. Types of pain differ depending on the symptoms, physical characteristics, and underlying medical conditions.
Knowing the difference between acute, chronic, and neuropathic pain can help you understand your pain and lead to more effective treatment solutions. Talk with your doctor today to learn more about your specific type and pain management.
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