top of page
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is experienced in many ways and interpreted subjectively. Pain lasting longer than 3 months is tyically considered to be in a chronic state. Examples of chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) include fibromyalgia, myofacial pain, musculoskeletal pain, radiculopathy, inflammation, and psychogenic pain.
The persistent cycle of unrelenting pain, affects the ability to adapt to circumstances and maintain functional status. In fact, more than 50% of adults with chronic pain develop chronic pain syndrome (CPS), which includes a cluster of symptoms and behaviors. Common presentation of CPS includes persistent pain, depression and anxiety, increased disability, increased opioid consumption / substance abuse, fatigue, and sleep problems. In addition, heightened musculoskeletal pain associated with anxiety is linked to psychological stress.
Research has shown that stress is a modifiable risk factor that responds to engaging in positive rewarding activities. When stress overcomes an individual, pain becomes more impactful to daily function.
The below diagram demonstrates how stress, whether originating internally or externally, can overload the individual's coping measures leading to a path of negative destructive behaviors.Â
Our goal at SoCal Behavioral Medicine, Inc. is to medically address both the physical and psychological needs simultaneously to optimize functional status and quality of life in those afflicted with chronic pain syndrome. While narcotic pain relievers have a role in chronic pain managment, our goal is to minimize the use and dependence on opioid pain relievers.
Pain medication alone only addresses part of the problem and is often abused for potential mood elevating effects. Therefore, we take extreme precaution in limiting risk of opioid abuse.
Coping skills to manage stress-induced anxiety from intractable pain or not being able to accomplish daily tasks, are necessary to maintain a fullfilling life, despite living with chronic pain. Therapists and counselors can help individuals learn stress-relief activities, mindfulness tactics, and other therapeutic measures that promote optimism and life satisfaction.​​
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
​
​
​
​
bottom of page