4 Types of Pain and How to Help Them

Pain management techniques vary depending on the type of pain, its severity, and the underlying cause. At St. Louis Pain Consultants, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic technology to help our patients find relief. Here are four types of pain and how to treat them:

1. Acute Pain

Acute pain arises suddenly and is linked to a specific injury or condition, such as a sprained ankle or surgical procedure. It usually lasts less than a few weeks and resolves after treating the underlying cause. The intensity varies from dull and mild to sharp and severe, depending on the cause and the individual’s pain threshold. Causes of acute pain include impact injuries, muscle strains, broken bones, and inflammation.

2. Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is persistent pain lasting longer than three months. It is common, affecting approximately 51.6 million people in 2021. Unlike acute pain, chronic pain can persist even after the underlying issue is treated or healed. It stems from various sources, including conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia, but it can also arise without any obvious causes. Chronic pain may manifest as a constant ache, sharp pain, or a burning sensation. It can also significantly impact daily life, affecting sleep, mood, and overall well-being.

3. Neuropathic Pain

Individuals may experience neuropathic or nerve pain if their nervous system becomes damaged or malfunctions. Neuropathic pain can occur even in the absence of any apparent physical injury, presenting as a burning, tingling, or shooting sensation. It is associated with conditions such as diabetes, shingles, and multiple sclerosis. Other causes include:

• Trauma-related nerve damage
• Parkinson’s disease
• Radiation therapy
• Amputation
• Spinal nerve compression

4. Nociceptive Pain

Nociceptive pain occurs when the body’s nerve endings, called nociceptors, detect actual or potential tissue damage. These receptors send a signal to the brain indicating that something is wrong. The two main types of nociceptive pain are somatic and visceral.

Somatic pain is localized, allowing individuals to pinpoint where it hurts. If a person stubs their toe or has a cut on their hand, they will experience somatic nociceptive pain. Visceral pain is more generalized, which can make it challenging to locate. It may include pain in the abdomen area caused by appendicitis or a gallbladder issue.

Treatment Options

A pain management facility like St. Louis Pain Consultants offers treatment options for many types of pain, including chronic and neuropathic. During an appointment at a pain management clinic, the patient shares their symptoms and medical history with a doctor during a comprehensive assessment. This allows the doctor to diagnose any underlying conditions and create a tailored treatment plan for the type of pain they are experiencing. If the patient’s condition is causing acute pain, the doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications. These options are designed to help with pain management and inflammation. The doctor may also suggest physical therapy to enhance strength and recovery or reduced activity to promote rest and healing.

For chronic and neuropathic pain, treatments like peripheral nerve stimulation or epidural steroid injections can be beneficial. Peripheral nerve stimulation involves implanting a small device near the affected nerve. This device sends electrical impulses to help disrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, providing relief for the patient. Epidural steroid injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the epidural space of the spine. This treatment can reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves, which is helpful for conditions like herniated discs or sciatica.

Acute nociceptive pain is treated by addressing the primary cause, such as caring for a wound or wearing a brace. If nociceptive pain persists after a tissue injury, a pain management professional may recommend additional treatment options like injections or nerve blocks. Our team at St. Louis Pain Consultants works closely with each patient to determine the source of their pain and create a personalized treatment plan.

Meet With a Pain Management Professional

Working with a pain management professional provides you with access to specialized therapies and guidance for managing chronic pain effectively. At St. Louis Pain Consultants, we offer many services, including facet injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation. Contact us today to meet with a doctor and discuss your pain management options.