What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain often develops gradually. It can be mild, moderate, or severe pain that worsens over time. Chronic pain persists (constantly or intermittently) for longer than 3 months and can last for years. With chronic pain, the underlying cause may not be clear or easily identifiable, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging. Some examples of the medical conditions that cause chronic pain include rheumatoid arthritis, cervical disc pain, sports-related or work-related injuries, compression fractures, osteoarthritis, and (CRPS) Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

If left untreated, chronic pain can cause additional medical, emotional, and social challenges or issues. Patients with chronic pain can experience anxiety, despair, depression, anger, sleep disturbance, suicidal thoughts, and other medical issues. Chronic pain also affects one’s relationships, productivity, activity levels, and quality of life.

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists (M.I.S.S.) is committed to patient education. We hope this video and resource article provides you with some foundational information to help you determine what questions you need to ask your medical providers and to select the best treatment option for you. To schedule an appointment with one of our spine and pain management specialists, please call 219-836-7246. To see the full list of all of our educational videos, CLICK HERE.