Chronic Pain and Chiropractic

Pain is considered chronic if it lasts for three months or more. There are two major non-cancerous types of chronic pain; musculoskeletal pain and neuropathic pain. Musculoskeletal pain relates to bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Neuropathic pain is often felt as a burning sensation or shooting pain caused by nerve or tissue damage.

In a 2011 study from Queen’s University, when asked if they were free from pain or discomfort, about 55% of the Canadian population reported to suffer non-specific chronic pain. Most of these patients report pain in their back, neck or head, whether from musculoskeletal conditions or other underlying conditions. Pain in these areas may have been initially caused by a trauma or a motor vehicle accident, but most often the pain has presents as non-specific or without a known underlying cause. There are numerous underlying structural or mechanical causes that can be addressed through conservative care.

Identifying the cause of chronic pain can be difficult, but is the first step necessary to treat the condition. Chiropractic expertise in the assessment and diagnosis of musculoskeletal disorders can help pinpoint the origins of pain.  Chiropractors are trained to assess and diagnose musculoskeletal conditions and suggest an individualized treatment plan, or referral as appropriate. Treatment options may include spinal manipulation or mobilization, traction, and other therapies to alleviate pain, as well as lifestyle counselling and rehabilitation exercises

A 2012 U.S. study has revealed that patients receiving chiropractic treatment combined with exercise for chronic neck pain were twice as likely to become pain-free than those receiving medication.

 

The results of the study are encouraging for chronic pain sufferers who prefer not to take medication to manage their pain:

• 32% of those receiving only chiropractic care became pain-free
• 30% of those exercising became pain-free
• 13% of those treated with medication for chronic pain became pain-free

Chiropractic care as part of the healthcare team can play an important role in the assessment and management of chronic pain related to MSK conditions. More and more studies are providing evidence of effective relief of chronic pain through chiropractic treatment.

http://www.chiropractic.ca/blog/how-chiropractic-care-can-help-manage-chronic-pain/