Persistent Pain

Persistent/Chronic Pain

 Chronic pain is pain that lasts for at least 12 weeks and can happen anywhere in the body, even after an injury has healed. This type of pain can make daily tasks and activities difficult and draining. Pain is an unpleasant feeling caused by actual or potential tissue damage. It has both physical and emotional components. The nerves in our bodies send warning messages to the brain about tissue damage, but the brain creates the feeling of pain. Pain is a product of perceived threat, and when our body feels threatened, our sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) kicks in. The triggers for this stress response are different for each person, which is why pain is unique to each individual. Everyday stressors can also play a role in persistent pain. Understanding the science behind pain can help reduce the uncertainty of why the pain is present and lower the threat level. It's important to rule out physical causes for pain before assuming it's primarily from the psychosocial component. Our therapists will work with you and your doctor to determine your optimal care.