Does Stress Affect Chronic Pain?

If you live with chronic pain, you are familiar with the effects it can have on your daily life. Unfortunately, chronic pain is associated with the development of other conditions such as anxiety or fatigue. However, the reverse may also be true: long term stress can also have an impact on the way that you feel from day to day, exacerbating certain types of pain and even leading to other symptoms like skin problems or weight gain. 

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain is generally understood to be any type of pain that lasts for several months or longer. A common interpretation is that pain becomes chronic once it lasts more than three months, though it may come and go. The right treatment for chronic pain ultimately depends on what is causing the discomfort, but it is important to note that it can sometimes lead to the development of other issues such as anxiety, fatigue, insomnia and depression. 

Common causes of chronic pain include back and neck pain, arthritis, pain from nerve damage, and headaches. Those who are diagnosed with cancer may also experience prolonged pain or discomfort.  When you meet with your doctor at Pain Control Associates for the first time, we will discuss your symptoms and health history with you to get a better idea of what is happening and why you are seeking help with pain relief. From there, we may order additional testing. Treatment might include a combination of methods such as medication, epidural injections, physical therapy, or surgery. 

Stress and physical discomfort

If you are frequently stressed, there is a good chance that you have also experienced some aches and pains. Stress can lead to muscle tension and the consequent soreness. Additionally, research has shown that there is an association between prolonged stress and chronic pain, especially back pain. 

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), some types of chronic pain are also more common in those with anxiety disorders. This adds an extra layer of complication in that anxiety can lead to additional fear around pain and side effects from medications. 

If you suspect you may have an anxiety disorder, or that your mental health is being affected by your physical conditions, it is a good idea to address your concerns with a professional. A therapist may be able to recommend treatments that address your symptoms and feelings about your physical condition. 

Pain management with Pain Control Associates, LLC

At Pain Control Associates, LLC, it is our objective to improve your quality of life. If you are dealing with chronic pain and the associated stress, finding a pain management plan that works for you may be able to help ease some of the discomfort. No matter the cause of your pain, our doctors will work with you to help understand the cause of your pain and discuss the available methods of treatment. To schedule an appointment or learn more about how our advanced pain management techniques can help you, contact us today.