6 Dangerous Myths About Chronic Pain

Millions of Americans suffer from some form of chronic pain daily. So, it’s easy to see why there is so much information floating around about this common problem.

However, not all information that’s readily available is accurate. Certain myths about chronic pain can potentially be damaging to your health.

These myths can lead to:

• Unnecessary expenses
• Unsuccessful treatments
• Enhancing the problem

If you are in the early stages of identifying and treating your chronic pain, watch out for these myths that can have long-term consequences, without a real or viable solution.

1. Chronic Pain Is a Normal Side Effect of Aging

We can expect a few aches and pains can as we get older. But chronic pain is an entirely different issue that’s outside of the body’s normal wear and tear.

If you have pinpointed pain daily, this is not a consequence of aging alone and is a separate issue you need to address.

Chronic pain should never be thought of as inevitable. You should treat it like the medical condition it is.

2. Working Through the Pain Can Help You Feel Better

One of the most dangerous myths is sufferers can feel better if they “work through the pain” through exercise or continuing with every day and potentially strenuous activities.

However, depending on the root of your pain problem, not only will the “no pain, no gain” mantra be ineffective, but it can also cause more damage over time.

During a flare-up of chronic pain, not only will simple movements be difficult, but the strain certain motions may cause could end up being excruciating.

3. Bed Rest Can Help Chronic Pain

Conversely, avoiding activity altogether and sticking to ample bed rest is also not a cure-all for chronic pain.

Research has found staying stationary can:

• Make the pain worse as painful joints may seize up
• Add pressure to certain areas of the body depending on your sleeping position
• Worsen spinal conditions 

4. Pain Relievers Are the Best Way to Fix Chronic Pain Easily

Pain relievers – both prescription and over-the-counter – may provide a little temporary relief, but they are not a long-term solution.

Also, the effectiveness of pain relievers for chronic pain dissipates over time, requiring continually stronger doses, and in many cases, leading to pain pill addiction.

5. Surgery Is the Best Way to Fix Chronic Pain Easily

A surgical treatment may address the root cause of your chronic pain problem. However, it should not be your first solution.

Surgical treatments are expensive, require weeks of recovery time, and can even lead to more issues or heightened pain, depending on the success of the operation.

6. There Are No Options for Chronic Pain Treatment Except Pain Pills, Surgery, or Living with the Problem.

This myth is easily the most dangerous of all because there ARE other and more effective options for managing your chronic pain! Firstly, contact a physician that specializes in interventional pain management.

Secondly, discover all of your many options first, before determining a catch-all solution. With a focus on your specific case of chronic pain interventional pain management is an effective and pinpointed way to address your chronic pain comprehensively.

Relieve Pain and Reclaim Your Life Today!

Dr. Brian K. Rich and the team at ACellOrtho (ACELLerated Interventional Orthopedics) work hard to serve patients across Oklahoma, and the nation, by restoring their quality of life to the highest level of functioning possible.

We take on cases ranging from back, hip, shoulder, and knee pain to steroid injections to spinal cord stimulation. You can see more of our conditions treated here.

Dr. Rich and his team will go through your history, pinpoint the underlying cause of your pain, and explain your treatment options.

After you’ve received treatment, you can expect Dr. Rich and team to follow up with lasting support. Are you ready to get an expert’s opinion and find relief? Get in touch with us to schedule your consultation today!

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