Chronic pain is a major medical condition distinctly different and more complex than acute pain. While acute pain is a normal sensation triggered in the nervous system to alert one to possible injury, chronic pain is a state in which pain persists for many months or years, beyond the normal course required by healing of an injury. The economic and personal losses associated with chronic pain can be significant, including costly medical expenses, lost income and productivity; lost mobility, anxiety or depression.
The causes of chronic pain are not always clear. Past traumatic injuries, congenital conditions, cancers, arthritis, and others might point to an obvious culprit, but in many cases the source of chronic pain can be very complex. This makes it difficult to treat, and pain management usually does not involve one approach, but a multidisciplinary focus designed to help the patient reach his or her highest level of function and independence.
Chronic pain may develop as a result of several different conditions, including:
Your doctor will evaluate your condition through a series of diagnostic exams.
Treatments for chronic pain may focus on relieving symptoms or treating the underlying condition, and can vary depending on the cause and severity of each patient’s individual condition, as well as their overall health and medical history. The most successful pain management programs are those that are specifically tailored for each individual patient so that they can remain actively involved in their own recovery.
There are over 100 different types of arthritic diseases. The most common is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage protecting the bone ends wears away. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the joint lining.
A diagnosis of arthritis is made after an evaluation of symptoms, a physical examination and one or more diagnostic imaging tests. Unfortunately, most types of arthritis are currently incurable – but today’s treatment options can be very effective. Treatment typically involves a combination of anti-inflammatory medication and devices to relieve stress on the joint (canes, crutches or splints). Regular exercise, weight loss for overweight patients, and cortisone injections may also be helpful. In severe cases, orthopedic surgery such as joint replacement may be the only way to improve or restore function and relieve pain.
We’ll help you recover faster after a car crash. Contact our clinic today to begin physical therapy treatments.
After a car accident, physical therapy can help you regain strength, balance, and mobility. As Oceanside’s trusted physical therapist, Comprehensive Healthcare Group offers personalized physical therapy after car accidents so you can return to normal life quickly.
According to a recent report from the National Safety Council, car crashes in the U.S. result in 5.4 million injuries requiring medical care. For those lucky enough to walk away from an accident, physical therapy can treat many common injuries, including:
Even if you feel fine after a collision, it’s possible to suffer from delayed soft tissue injuries where symptoms aren’t present until a few weeks after the accident. As soon as you feel any discomfort or pain, see a doctor to diagnose your condition and recommend a treatment plan. It’s critical to begin treating your injuries immediately to reduce your recovery time.
With whiplash injuries, in particular, there is a 50% full recovery rate, while the other 50% of patients will experience recurring symptoms, according to the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. Mild concussions usually involve a recovery period of two weeks for adults and one month for children under 18, though the University of Michigan estimates that up to 30% of victims will endure a prolonged recovery period.
Working with a physical therapist after an auto accident is a natural way to relieve pain and strengthen your body. You’ll perform various exercises that target specific muscle groups and increase your flexibility and mobility. This practice sets you up for long-term joint and muscle health and doesn’t rely on medication to relieve pain.
You can eliminate the need for painkillers and feel better by moving your body with these gentle exercises.
The benefits of physical therapy make it a worthy treatment for all groups of injured people, not just those involved in a car accident.
To receive post-car accident physical therapy in Valley Stream or Oceanside, NY, turn to the experts at Comprehensive Healthcare Group.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. Contact Comprehensive Healthcare Group at (516) 764-7760 (Oceanside clinic) or (516) 593-7990 (Valley Stream clinic).
The sooner, the better. Many patients begin therapy within three days of an accident.
Attending two or three appointments per week is recommended. This schedule may last for several weeks until you fully heal.
Your body will adjust to the injury, making rehabilitation longer and harder.
Our services are available from Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment, call our Oceanside, NY office at 516.764.7760 or our Valley Stream, NY office at 516.593.7990.
