Chronic Pain Support Group

What is Chronic Pain?

Physicians and other health professionals define pain as ìchronicî if it lasts longer than six months and is persistent. Some professionals consider three months the threshold for diagnosis. It is distinct from acute pain, which is the direct result of a specific trauma or injury.

Causes of Chronic Pain

A variety of conditions and ailments may contribute to chronic pain. A series of acute injuries may, over time, change the way the brain interprets pain signals and result in a constant feeling of discomfort or pain, thus causing a chronic pain condition. Other conditions often associated with or leading to chronic pain include migrane, cancer, back injury or deterioration, fibromyalgia, arthritis and many others. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, determining the cause of the pain is the first step in many cases. This is often difficult because the cause may not show up in standard tests.

Treating Chronic Pain

Relief from chronic pain is available through an increasing number of treatments. Popular alternative treatments include acupuncture, acupressure, and chiropractic adjustment. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, but for more severe pain, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications like hydrocodone (better known under the brand name Vicodin) and oxycodone. Several longterm, lifestyle-based techniques for pain management may be beneficial, such as regular exercise, diet, improved sleep hygiene, meditation, yoga, and in-person or online support groups.

Chronic Pain Resources and Support

Itís usually not easy to cope with chronic pain. Participation in a chronic pain support group can help ease feelings of isolation and depression that may arise ñ feelings which may not be addressed by pain medication. In DailyStrength's chronic pain support group, the tips, advice and feedback from other people around the world can help on many levels. You can chat with those new to the condition, and with those who've met the challenges of chronic pain for many years. If your chronic pain results from other conditions, you may also want to check out DailyStrengthís various pain-related support groups. In addition, you can review treatments, keep a wellness journal, and set goals for yourself, which your DailyStrength friends will encourage you to reach successfully.

If you are new to chronic pain and seeking more information, these resources may be helpful. Feel free to share and discuss what you learn in DailyStrength's Chronic Pain Forum.

• University of Michigan's Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center
• The American Academy of Pain Management's pain resource page
• Chronic Pain Syndromes In Women, Johns Hopkins University