Chronic pain
Everyone has experienced pain at least once in their life. Pain is a protective reaction of the body in response to the action of stimuli and delivers very unpleasant physical and emotional sensations. Pain is a sign of various pathological conditions that differ in intensity, duration, and development causes. That is why pain syndrome treatment should be individualized for each patient.
Chronic pain lasts for four to six months, does not have a specific localization, and acquires the status of an independent disease since it is not always possible to determine the etiological factor.
Unpleasant sensations can occur in the presence of malignant tumors, inflammatory lesions of the connective tissue, intervertebral hernia, and other long-term pathologies.
Often, chronic pain syndrome is accompanied by insomnia, increased fatigue and weakness, loss of appetite, taste disturbance, decreased libido, and digestive disorders. Constantly disturbing pains significantly worsen the quality of a person’s life and lead to the development of a depressive state and anxiety. A person cannot perform his daily duties, particularly professional ones. Treatment with analgesics is ineffective.
To get rid of unpleasant sensations, first of all, you need to determine the root cause of this condition, and for this, you will need to undergo a comprehensive diagnosis.
Klinken Schmieder is equipped with modern equipment that helps to identify the cause of chronic pain with 100% accuracy and develop the most effective therapy.
Reasons for the development of chronic pain
Chronic pain can occur against the background of a wide variety of pathologies. The presence of unpleasant and painful sensations may indicate the presence of inflammatory reactions in the organs of the chest and abdominal cavity, diseases of the genitourinary system, oncological processes, local infection (tuberculosis, prostatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, lung abscess, and others).
Chronic pain can result from disruption of the central nervous system, with psycho-emotional disorders. If we talk about the most common and common causes of chronic pain, they include:
- osteochondritis of the spine;
- degenerative-dystrophic and inflammatory diseases of the joints;
- stressful situations;
- surgical interventions;
- traumatization;
- a history of stroke or heart attack.
Often, a disturbing pain syndrome leads to the development of depressive states, a feeling of hopelessness, a deterioration in attention, and a deterioration in the general condition.
Treatment of chronic pain
The tactics of chronic pain therapy are determined individually for each patient, depending on etiological factors. For pain relief, a systematic and integrated approach is used, including:
- pharmacotherapy (painkillers are used that contribute to the complete relief or reduction of a pain syndrome);
- epidural injections of glucocorticosteroids (an injection is performed into the epidural space of the spinal column, which helps to eliminate inflammation and reduce pain during compression of the nerve roots);
- blockade with injectable forms of painkillers and anesthetics (performed directly into the painful area of the body);
- epidural stimulation of the spinal cord.
Rehabilitation for chronic pain
Rehabilitation for chronic pain syndrome at Klinken Schmieder includes the use of classical and innovative methods that contribute to the complete elimination of discomfort and the restoration of both the physical and mental health of a person.
Thanks to the multidisciplinary principle of work of such specialists as rehabilitators, psychologists, psychotherapists, ergo therapists, and kinesiotherapy, it is possible to guard patients against unpleasant and painful sensations completely.
The rehabilitation program is developed separately for each patient, considering the cause of pain, concomitant diseases, age, and other characteristics. The most popular and effective methods of rehabilitation include:
- Psychotherapy – by establishing a deep personal contact with the patient, the psychotherapist manages to eliminate psycho-emotional discomfort, to help the person understand the existing problems. The specialist teaches patient-specific skills that improve the quality of life. The psychotherapist can use a variety of techniques, in particular behavioral and pharmacological. One of the most popular forms of psychotherapy is cognitive therapy. The specialist’s actions aim to teach the patient more realistic thinking and activities, which will help him adapt to the current situation, eliminating the disturbing symptoms.
Physiotherapy procedures are a safe and effective method of treating chronic pain, eliminating inflammatory foci, improving blood circulation, speeding up the regeneration processes, relieving muscle tension, and compression of nerve roots. Our clinic uses shock wave therapy, magnetotherapy, laser therapy, vibration exposure, electromyostimulation, phonophoresis, and many other methods.
- Exercise therapy and massage – physical education classes are carried out individually, using innovative methods. Such procedures eliminate vegetative disorders, improve motor skills, and allow the body to recover from injuries and operations. Our specialists are guided by the following principles – regularity, a gradual increase in physical activity, and exercises developed for different muscle groups.
Various rehabilitation methods used in Klinken Schmieder require a lot of patience and work from the patient. Our specialists direct all their efforts to normalize the patient’s condition, eliminate etiological factors and return the person to their usual way of life as soon as possible, without pain and discomfort.
FAQ
What is chronic pain?
Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than three months, beyond the normal healing period of an injury or illness. It can be constant or intermittent and may significantly affect quality of life, mood, and physical activity.
What causes chronic pain?
Causes vary and may include nerve damage (neuropathic pain), musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, surgeries, inflammatory diseases, or central nervous system disorders. In some cases, no clear cause can be identified.
How is chronic pain different from acute pain?
Acute pain is a short-term warning signal of injury or illness. Chronic pain persists over time and often develops into a condition in its own right, affecting the nervous system and potentially leading to changes in pain perception. The consequences for patients are often depressive states, a feeling of hopelessness and a deterioration in their general condition.
Why is rehabilitation important for chronic pain?
Chronic pain can lead to reduced mobility, muscle weakness, depression, and social withdrawal. Neurorehabilitation helps break this cycle by improving physical function, teaching coping strategies, and reducing the impact of pain on daily life.
What therapies are used in chronic pain rehabilitation at Kliniken Schmieder?
Rehabilitation for chronic pain syndrome at Klinken Schmieder includes the use of classical and innovative methods, which in the best case, contribute to the complete elimination of discomfort and the restoration of both the physical and mental health of a person. A multidisciplinary approach is key and may include:
- Physiotherapy for eliminating inflammatory foci, improving blood circulation, speeding up the regeneration processes, relieving muscle tension, and compressing nerve roots.
- Occupational therapy to adapt daily activities and conserve energy
- Pain psychology for coping strategies, relaxation techniques, and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Medication management
- Relaxation and mindfulness training
- Modern technology-assisted treatments (e.g., TENS, biofeedback)
Can chronic pain be completely cured?
While complete elimination of pain is not always possible, rehabilitation aims to reduce pain intensity and improve function. The multidisciplinary team at Kliniken Schmiedern works together with patients to alleviate pain and enhance quality of life.
How long does rehabilitation for chronic pain take?
Duration depends on the underlying cause, severity, and individual goals. Programs may range from several weeks of intensive inpatient therapy to long-term outpatient support.
How can family members help?
Family can provide emotional support, encourage physical activity, and help avoid overprotection, which can unintentionally reduce independence. Recognising that chronic pain is a real condition, even when no apparent injury is visible, is essential.
Are lifestyle changes important for managing chronic pain?
Yes. Regular low-impact exercise, healthy nutrition, good sleep hygiene, stress management, and pacing activities throughout the day can all reduce pain flare-ups.
Is chronic pain linked to psychological health?
Yes – persistent pain often affects mood and can lead to anxiety or depression. Addressing both physical and emotional health is an integral part of rehabilitation at Kliniken Schmieder. Our psychologists trained in pain therapy use the patient’s mental strength to alleviate pain.