30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- Individuals with chronic pain may be met with apprehension from certain physicians because the condition is difficult to diagnose and is often self-reported.
- According to researchers from the University of Colorado, brain imaging may help physicians and pain management specialists validate treatment for chronic pain.
- The team at Southwest Spine and Pain Center shares this new method for mapping out pain in the brain.
Diagnosing Chronic Pain
We’ve said it time and time again, but we’ll reiterate: chronic pain is a complex condition that can be difficult to diagnose if a physician doesn’t understand the signs, symptoms, or pain management industry in general. This can be frustrating for patients who’ve lived with pain for years and are desperate to find relief.
Fortunately, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center understand pain-related conditions and how to treat them. Nevertheless, any tool that may explain or validate a pain treatment is welcomed, and according to researchers at the University of Colorado there may be one on the horizon.
The Brain Mapping Technique
Positron Emission tomography is being used to map out inflammation in areas where “obvious tissue damage” is not present, especially for those reporting whiplash pain or pain near the elbow. Moreover, MRI imagining is being used to display the differences of long term and sudden pain (i.e. touching something hot, bumping your arm, etc.).
Researchers at the university also found that when experiencing pain, imagining something calming can help diminish the pain. If you’re experiencing chronic pain and are afraid of being misunderstood or turned away, see a specialists who understands what you’re going through, like the ones at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. There, the team of world-class physicians will take the time to get to know you, your pain and recommend state-of-the-art treatments to help remedy discomfort. Call the specialists today to set up your appointment!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With five locations in Utah and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
Source: http://www.voanews.com/content/new-brain-mapping-techniques-could-ease-chronic-pain/2727148.html