Nearly 100 million Americans are affected by chronic pain of varying forms. Chronic bone, joint, and muscle pain accounts for one of the most common reasons for doctor’s visits in the United States. At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, we are experts of pain management of the spine. As a specialty, however, we are equally adept in the management of musculoskeletal pain.
As the leading pain group in Utah, Southwest Spine and Pain Center is proficient in the diagnosis and care for chronic pain conditions. With four locations across the state, Southwest Spine and Pain caters not only to a patients needs, but their wants and concerns during treatment.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are notoriously the most prescribed form of treatment for pain. These medications, while effective in congruence with other treatment options, should not be solely relied on. Antidepressants and anticonvulsants are forms of medication that can be used to manage chronic bone and joint pain. Based on recent research and approval by the FDA, anticonvulsants and antidepressants are safe, effective, and readily accessible for the treatment of chronic pain.
Many patients find bone and joint pain relief through the use of topical agents. Capsaicin, a substance in chili peppers, triggers the release of endorphins in the body, which helps block pain. Ben Gay is another effective topical option, containing the pain block substance methyl salicylate. Talk with your Southwest Spine and Pain physician if topical agents could be effective and safe in your treatment.
Physical therapy, home care, and injection therapy are all plausible options for the treatment of bone and joint pain. Patients are encouraged to explore these options with their physician. In addition to treatment, chronic pain patients should consider the following tips to help manage their pain:
- Avoid acute pain causes: use appropriate techniques when exercising or performing every day activities
- Avoiding unhealthy behaviors: don’t smoke, treat mood disorders, and control diabetes
- Evaluate the source of pain:
- Use a healthcare team: The physicians at Southwest Spine and Pain use a tailored treatment plan, unique to each patient. We also communicate with other healthcare professionals that are incorporated in their care.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations 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.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2014
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