What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is a persistent condition that causes ongoing discomfort lasting months or even years. Unlike acute pain—which typically lasts hours or weeks and fades as the injury heals—chronic pain persists, often returning even after periods of relief. The good news is that lasting relief is possible with the right approach.

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How Does Chronic Pain Differ from Other Types of Pain?

Most of us have experienced acute pain from things like sprained ankles or pulled muscles, which usually resolve within a few weeks. Chronic pain, however, can linger for months or years, especially when the root cause remains unidentified or untreated.

Unlike acute pain, which usually follows a clear injury or illness, chronic pain might originate from an old injury you barely remember or from conditions like degenerating discs, aging joints, or pinched nerves. Often, chronic pain is harder to detect because it might not show up on standard tests such as X-rays, making diagnosis more challenging. Physical therapists often play a crucial role in locating and assessing the source of chronic pain.

Common Types of Chronic Pain

Many chronic conditions can cause long-lasting pain that physical therapy can help manage, including:

  • Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • Headaches
  • Pelvic Joint Pain
  • Peripheral Neuropathy
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • Foot Pain
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Tennis Elbow

How Can Physical Therapy Help with Chronic Pain?

Treatment depends on the type of pain and its underlying cause. Physical therapists often work alongside medical teams, especially in cases like diabetes-related pain or when physical therapy is used to avoid surgery.

Common physical therapy techniques include:

  • Manual Therapy: Gentle stretching and pressure applied to muscles and joints to reduce pain and improve mobility.
  • Posture and Movement Training: Teaching you how to move and hold yourself to reduce stress on painful areas.
  • Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises: Tailored exercises to increase muscle strength and improve range of motion.

Types of Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain

After assessing your range of motion, habits, and pain levels, your therapist will create a personalized plan. This may include:

  • Therapeutic exercises to enhance mobility and strength
  • Specialized techniques like cupping, acupuncture, or decompression therapy, depending on your needs
  • Home exercise programs to maintain progress and reduce pain between sessions

Regular physical therapy can lead to improved muscle function, reduced discomfort, and better overall quality of life.

Trust the Experts in Council Bluffs

Our skilled team of licensed physical therapists has extensive experience helping patients manage chronic pain with personalized, hands-on care. We focus on reducing pain and restoring function using proven therapies tailored to your needs.

Don’t let chronic pain control your life—contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward lasting relief.