Chronic Pain Management

Don’t let chronic pain hold you back. At Nirvana Healthcare Management Services in Essex County, New Jersey, we specialize in expert chronic pain management. Our experienced primary care providers are adept at accurately diagnosing and effectively treating chronic pain, ensuring that you receive the precise pain medicine needed for your specific condition. With our comprehensive approach, we focus on both pain management and prevention, working tirelessly to minimize the negative impact chronic pain has on your life. Trust our dedicated team to help you effectively manage chronic pain and experience a better overall quality of life. Don’t suffer in silence – contact us today!

What Is Chronic Pain?

When an individual falls ill or suffers an injury, they might endure pain that stretches over several weeks or even months. This acute pain can evolve into chronic pain if it continues for three months or longer, even if it’s not constant. Chronic pain often disrupts normal daily routines, affecting everything from professional responsibilities to social engagements with friends and family. Given the significant impact of chronic pain on everyday life, it’s not uncommon for those affected to experience feelings of anxiety and depression, which can potentially intensify the discomfort.

Chronic pain does not have a single source; it varies from person to person. Some individuals may continue to experience pain from a past illness or injury long after they’ve recovered. In other situations, ongoing conditions such as arthritis or cancer pain might be the root cause of the unending discomfort. There are also cases where psychological factors come into play. For instance, a person dealing with high levels of stress may have reduced endorphin levels in their blood, contributing to their pain.

Regardless of the underlying cause of chronic pain, it’s important for patients to understand that there are ways to treat chronic pain. With the right approach and treatment plan, managing and potentially reducing chronic pain is achievable.

How Does Chronic Pain Manifest?

Chronic pain, which can range from mild to moderate pain, often presents in various parts of the body and comes with unique sensations for each individual. The most common areas for chronic pain are typically the back, head, and major joints. However, individuals may also experience it in the following regions:

• All over the body (as in fibromyalgia)
• Areas impacted by cancer pain
• Neck
• Nerves or central nervous system (resulting in neurogenic pain)
• Scar tissue
• Testicles (a condition known as orchialgia)

As time passes, those dealing with chronic pain may develop additional symptoms such as insomnia, mood alterations, and fatigue. Moreover, the nature of the discomfort can vary significantly among individuals. Some might describe their pain as aching or throbbing, while others might define it as burning or stinging. Stiffness is another sensation frequently associated with chronic pain.

Diagnosing Chronic Pain

When a patient experiences chronic pain, a primary care doctor will investigate to determine the underlying condition. This could involve questions about the location of the chronic pain or acute pain, its frequency, severity, and any activities that exacerbate or alleviate it. The physician might also delve into the patient’s medical history, including previous conditions or surgeries, and evaluate the level of stress in their life.

If the pain’s source isn’t immediately clear, involving areas such as the brain and spinal cord or the central nervous system, the doctor may need to undertake further investigations. These could include blood tests, imaging scans, and other diagnostic screenings to accurately pinpoint the origin of the pain.

Treatment of Chronic Pain

Therapy for chronic pain typically corresponds to its origin. However, if a primary healthcare professional cannot discern the cause, the focus shifts to effective chronic pain management. It’s often the case that a single remedy is insufficient to completely rid a patient of chronic pain. As a result, our doctors may employ a mix of approaches to relieve pain and provide comfort.

The strategies for treating chronic pain are diverse and extensive. They can range from lifestyle modifications to more holistic methods like physical therapy or occupational therapy. Medication is another frequently used pain treatment option for chronic pain.

Medication Management Services

Given the vast array of medicines available for chronic pain management, a crucial part of the treatment of chronic pain is proper medication management. A wide variety of prescription and over-the-counter pain medication, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antidepressants, as well as topical applications and medical marijuana, may be utilized to aid in pain relief. While most over-the-counter options are safe, incorrect usage can have adverse effects, as demonstrated by the national opioid crisis. Moreover, some drugs can affect specific organs, like the liver. At Nirvana Healthcare Management Services, primary care doctors not only recommend various medications to treat pain, but they also educate patients on the safest and most effective dosages to relieve chronic pain. Our esteemed team of pharmacists is also available to provide comprehensive assistance in effectively managing your medication needs.

Lifestyle Changes

It’s important to note that these methods should be used in conjunction with treatment plans provided by our doctors at Nirvana Healthcare Management Services. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice but can complement your ongoing treatment.

1. Regular Exercise: Light exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help strengthen muscles and improve mobility. Always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
2. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can reduce inflammation and support overall body health.
3. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and soothe pain.
4. Mind-Body Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress and reduce pain perception.
5. Adequate Sleep: A good night’s sleep can help your body heal and reduce pain levels.
6. Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put a strain on your joints and exacerbate pain. Maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate this issue.
7. Avoiding Alcohol and Tobacco: These substances can worsen chronic pain and interfere with the effectiveness of medications.
8. Staying Hydrated: Proper hydration can help keep your body functioning optimally and may help reduce pain.

Remember, always consult with your doctor before trying any new pain management techniques at home.

Seek Specialty Care at Prospect Spine and Pain

Discover advanced treatment options at Prospect Spine and Pain in Newark, NJ. When complex diagnoses arise, our highly skilled primary care providers may refer you to our team of experts led by board-certified physiatrist Dr. Maria Cabodevilla-Conn. With a focus on interventional pain management, we ensure top-notch care for your unique needs. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your health – trust the experts at Prospect Spine and Pain. This team helps patients achieve better function and increased quality of life by creating customized treatment plans for pain in the following areas:

• Elbow
• Foot and ankle
• Hand and wrist
• Hip
• Knee
• Shoulder
• Spine

Attain Pain Management Care in Essex County, NJ

Find quality primary care providers and specialists for chronic pain management and treatment at Nirvana Healthcare Management Services. Our physician-owned and operated organization is committed to standardizing care across multiple locations in Newark and East Orange, NJ. Choose from trusted clinics like Salerno Medical Associates, Metropolitan Medical Group, Roseville Medical Society, North Ward Medical Arts, CHOP, and Armenti Medical Group. Contact us now to discover exceptional primary care services.