What is Acute Pain?
Acute pain is sudden and intense. It typically arises from a specific injury or condition and serves as the body’s alarm system. Key characteristics of acute pain include:
- Onset: Begins suddenly.
- Intensity: Sharp or intense pain.
- Duration: Lasts from a single day up to 12 weeks.
- Symptoms: May involve throbbing, burning, stabbing, weakness, localized numbness, or painful tingling.
- Causes: Physical injuries (e.g., fractures, burns, muscle strains), infections, surgeries, or trauma.
Acute pain is usually short-term and resolves once the underlying cause heals or receives medical attention.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain persists for longer than 3 months and affects daily life. Key features of chronic pain include:
- Duration: Lasts beyond 3 months.
- Frequency: Present every day or most days.
- Symptoms: Vary based on the underlying condition but may include aching, burning, stiffness, throbbing, shooting pains, or stinging.
Types of Chronic Pain
- Phantom Pain: Occurs after limb amputation, where pain feels as though it’s coming from the missing limb.
- Neuropathic Pain: Results from nerve damage, causing tingling and numbness.
- Central Pain: Originates in the brain or spinal cord (e.g., multiple sclerosis).
When to seek treatment for Chronic Pain:
If you experience persistent pain lasting longer than 3 months, consider seeking professional help. Here are signs to watch for:
- Disruption of Daily Life: Chronic pain interferes with work, sleep, and daily activities.
- Emotional Impact: Anxiety, depression, or mood changes due to pain.
- Limited Mobility: Difficulty moving or reduced quality of life.
- Failed Self-Management: Over-the-counter remedies or home treatments haven’t provided relief.
- Underlying Conditions: Chronic pain often accompanies conditions like arthritis, migraines, or spinal issues.
Seeking help at PSPS Texas:
At Post Surgical Pain Specialists, we understand the impact of chronic pain on your well-being. Our team of experts offers personalized treatment plans, including:
- Comprehensive Pain Assessment: Thorough evaluation to understand the root cause and severity of your pain.
- Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: Innovative technique involving implantable devices to modulate nerve signals and alleviate pain.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to disrupt pain signals from specific nerves.
Speak to our experienced providers today to learn more about our comprehensive pain management services. Don’t let chronic pain hold you back—seek relief today!
