Chronic pain is a term generally used to describe pain which lasts longer three months. It can affect both the physical and mental health of those affected. It is a common condition, with around 1 in 4 people in the UK believed to experience chronic pain at some time in their lifetime.
Chronic pain can have many side effects alongside the pain itself. The three most common forms of chronic pain though are back pain, joint pain, and headaches.
Other symptoms may are also commonly experienced by patients with chronic pain. These include:
Chronic pain is often a symptom of an underlying condition. Chronic pain symptoms may need to be treated separately if the underlying condition has been treated but the chronic pain continues. This happens when there is a miscommunication between the brain and the nervous system.
Underlying conditions that are often associated with Chronic pain include:
There are a number of factors that can increase the likelihood of developing chronic pain, such as smoking and being overweight. Conditions such as depression and arthritis are also often linked to chronic pain.
The treatment of chronic pain can include medical and alternative therapies. The exact treatment regime will depend on the patient, the origin of the pain and the symptoms experienced.
Medical treatments for chronic pain include:
In some cases, chronic pain may be improved with yoga, hypnosis, and acupuncture.
When other forms of treatment prove ineffective for chronic pain, medical cannabis could be an alternative form of treatment that offers much-needed relief. Alleviating symptoms of pain and discomfort can help patients enjoy a better quality of life and regain their independence.
Our specialist physicians are experienced in assessing individual cases and helping to determine whether medical cannabis could be an effective option.
