Chronic Pain Treatment Tulsa, OK
Table of Contents
Our Services
Chronic Pain Treatment in Tulsa, OK
Are you tired of living with persistent pain? At Memorial Pain Clinic in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we understand the debilitating effects of chronic pain on your daily life. Our dedicated team of specialists is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care to help you reclaim control and find relief from your pain. From innovative treatments to compassionate support, we are here to empower you on your journey toward a pain-free life.
To schedule an appointment with us, please call our clinic today at 918-200-9944.
What Is Chronic Pain?
Pain that lasts more than three months at a time is considered chronic, and it’s widely believed to be a disease all on its own. Acute pain typically goes away as your body heals from an injury or health condition, but chronic pain persists. It can adversely affect your health and well-being, and lead to severe health problems such as:
- Loss of mobility, flexibility, and strength
- Fatigue and trouble sleeping
- Changes in mood
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty completing daily tasks
- Missing work
- Isolation from social activities
- A less active lifestyle
Those who deal with painful symptoms every day often suffer emotional stress as a result of not being able to work, take care of their families, or participate in the activities they enjoy.
Chronic Pain vs Acute Pain
Chronic pain and acute pain are distinct types of discomfort with differing durations and underlying causes. Acute pain typically arises suddenly and is often a response to an injury, surgery, or illness. It serves as a warning signal to the body, signaling potential damage and prompting protective actions. Acute pain typically resolves as the underlying cause heals.
In contrast, chronic pain persists beyond the normal healing time and may last for months or even years. It can stem from various sources, including injury, inflammation, nerve damage, or underlying health conditions. Unlike acute pain, chronic pain often persists despite the resolution of the initial injury or condition and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
How Common Is Chronic Pain?
According to 2021 data from the CDC, nearly 21% of adults in the United States experienced chronic pain. Nearly 7% experienced high-impact chronic pain, which is pain that substantially restricts daily activities. As we can see, it is a prevalent issue affecting millions of Americans every year.
Chronic pain can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds and is considered one of the leading causes of disability and reduced quality of life. Its prevalence underscores the importance of effective pain management strategies and access to comprehensive care for those living with chronic pain conditions.
Chronic Pain Conditions
Chronic pain can affect nearly any part of the body, including the limbs, organs, and even the brain and spinal cord. There are many chronic conditions with pain as a major symptom. Examples of conditions that can lead to chronic pain include the following.
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic back pain
- Arthritis (particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Neuropathic pain
- Chronic migraines or headaches
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Endometriosis
- Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
- Phantom limb pain
- Chronic post-surgical pain
The above list is far from exhaustive. Many other conditions can cause chronic pain. If you suffer from a condition or injury that causes you chronic pain, call Memorial Pain Clinic. We will evaluate your condition and work with you to develop a pain management plan that works for you.
Is Chronic Pain a Disability?
Chronic pain in itself is not considered a disability. However, many patients are significantly disabled or impaired by their chronic pain. These patients may qualify for disability benefits, however, if their condition meets the Social Security Administration’s criteria. To qualify for disability benefits with chronic pain, a patient must show the following.
- The condition prevents the patient from working.
- It lasts at least a full year or is a fatal condition.
- The patient has sufficient medical evidence to support their disability.
Chronic pain is not listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book. The Blue Book outlines certain impairments that the SSA considers serious enough to prevent someone from working. It also outlines the criteria for determining if someone can qualify for disability benefits with those conditions.
Examples of conditions in the Blue Book that cause chronic pain include back injuries, chronic renal disease, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, neurological disorders, inflammatory arthritis, and systemic lupus.
Chronic Pain Symptoms
Chronic pain can manifest in various ways and may involve a range of symptoms, which can vary depending on the underlying condition causing the pain. Common symptoms of chronic pain may include the following.
- Persistent discomfort or soreness that lasts beyond the expected healing time for an injury or illness
- Aching, burning, stabbing, or shooting sensations
- Pain that worsens with activity or movement and may improve with rest
- Fatigue and exhaustion due to disrupted sleep patterns or constant discomfort
- Mood changes, including irritability, anxiety, depression, or frustration, often associated with the ongoing pain experience
- Decreased mobility and flexibility, leading to stiffness or weakness in affected areas
- Cognitive difficulties, such as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or “brain fog,” which can be associated with chronic pain conditions
- Changes in appetite, weight fluctuations, or gastrointestinal issues, which may result from the stress of living with chronic pain or side effects of pain medications
- Social withdrawal or isolation due to the challenges of managing chronic pain and participating in regular activities
Chronic pain affects individuals in different ways, and symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause of the pain. It is more than just pain, which is why accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatments are paramount. If you are living with chronic pain, contact one of our Tulsa pain management specialists today.
Types of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a complex and multifaceted condition that can manifest in various forms, affecting nearly any part of the body. From the persistent discomfort of chronic lower back pain and neck pain to the continuous ache of conditions like osteoarthritis in the knees or hips, chronic pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
Additionally, conditions such as chronic stomach pain, pelvic pain, shoulder pain, and ankle pain further illustrate the diverse nature of chronic pain experiences. Whether it’s neuropathic pain stemming from nerve damage or the localized soreness of complex regional pain syndrome, the breadth of chronic pain conditions underscores the need for personalized and comprehensive treatment approaches tailored to each individual’s specific needs and circumstances.
In the following sections, we outline some of the most common forms of chronic pain affecting various parts of the body.
Chronic Lower Back Pain
Chronic low back pain refers to persistent discomfort or soreness in the lumbar region of the spine that lasts for an extended period, typically more than three months. Unlike acute lower back pain, which often results from sudden injuries or strains and tends to resolve within a few weeks, chronic lower back pain may persist despite treatment.
It can significantly impact daily activities, work, and overall quality of life. It can stem from various underlying causes, including muscle or ligament strains, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or structural abnormalities of the spine.
Chronic Neck Pain
Chronic neck pain is a persistent discomfort or soreness in the cervical region of the spine that lasts for an extended period, typically more than three months. Chronic neck pain can significantly impact daily activities, work, and overall quality of life. It can stem from various underlying causes, including muscle tension, cervical disc degeneration, cervical spondylosis, whiplash injuries, poor posture, or structural abnormalities of the spine.
Chronic Stomach Pain
Chronic stomach pain can stem from various underlying causes, including gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or functional dyspepsia. Additionally, chronic stomach pain can also be related to conditions outside the gastrointestinal tract, such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or pancreatitis.
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Chronic pelvic pain can stem from various underlying causes, including gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, fibroids, or chronic pelvic inflammatory syndrome (CPPS) in men. Additionally, chronic pelvic pain can also be associated with urological disorders, gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal problems, or nerve dysfunction.
Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is a complex condition with multifactorial causes, and it can affect both men and women. In men, CPPS often involves ongoing pelvic pain or discomfort, often accompanied by urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or pain during urination.
In women, CPPS can manifest as chronic pelvic pain associated with conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), interstitial cystitis, or musculoskeletal issues affecting the pelvic area. The exact cause of CPPS is often challenging to determine and may involve a combination of factors such as inflammation, muscle tension, nerve dysfunction, psychological factors, or past pelvic trauma.
Chronic Shoulder Pain
Chronic shoulder pain can stem from various underlying causes, including rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), osteoarthritis, shoulder impingement syndrome, bursitis, tendonitis, or structural abnormalities of the shoulder joint. Additionally, chronic shoulder pain can also be related to issues in surrounding areas, such as the neck, upper back, or even referred pain from internal organs.
Chronic Knee Pain
Chronic knee pain can stem from various underlying causes, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, meniscal tears, ligament injuries (such as anterior cruciate ligament tears), patellar tendonitis, bursitis, or structural abnormalities of the knee joint. Additionally, chronic knee pain can also be related to factors such as obesity, overuse, or biomechanical issues affecting the alignment and function of the knee.
Chronic Ankle Pain
Chronic ankle pain can stem from various underlying causes, including unresolved ankle sprains, chronic instability, arthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries (such as chronic lateral ankle instability), osteochondral defects, or structural abnormalities of the ankle joint. Additionally, chronic ankle pain can also be related to biomechanical issues, repetitive stress, or previous injuries that have not fully healed.
Chronic Leg Pain
Chronic leg pain can stem from various underlying causes, including peripheral neuropathy, vascular issues (such as peripheral artery disease), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), sciatica, musculoskeletal conditions (such as muscle strains or stress fractures), or nerve compression syndromes. Additionally, chronic leg pain can also be related to systemic conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or metabolic disorders.
Chronic Hip Pain
Chronic hip pain can stem from various underlying causes, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, bursitis, tendinitis, labral tears, hip impingement syndrome, or structural abnormalities of the hip joint.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) or causalgia, is a chronic pain condition characterized by severe and persistent discomfort that typically affects one limb, most commonly an arm or a leg.
CRPS often develops after an injury, surgery, or trauma, but the pain experienced is disproportionate to the severity of the initial injury. The exact cause of CRPS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve malfunction of the nervous system, particularly the sympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.
Chronic Cancer Pain
Chronic cancer pain can arise from various sources, including the tumor itself, cancer-related treatments (such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), metastasis to bones or nerves, or complications from the disease process.
What Causes Chronic Pain?
The causes of chronic pain are as varied as the treatment options. Sometimes, chronic conditions cause painful symptoms, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and interstitial cystitis. Additionally, some of the most common health conditions that cause chronic pain include:
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Cancer pain
- Neuropathy
- Sciatica
- Sports injuries
- Headaches
Since pain isn’t “one size fits all,” neither is chronic pain treatment. The doctors at Memorial Pain create customized treatment plans designed to help reduce your pain while helping you restore function and live your life.
How Is Chronic Pain Diagnosed?
Diagnosing chronic pain typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider. Depending on the location and manifestation of the pain, diagnostic tests can vary. For example, diagnosing chronic musculoskeletal pain may require different tests from chronic abdominal pain.
We may employ any of the following diagnostic tests when pinpointing the source of a patient’s pain.
- Physical exam: A physical examination may be conducted to assess the affected area and identify any visible signs of injury, inflammation, or abnormalities. The healthcare provider may also assess range of motion, strength, sensation, and tenderness in the affected area.
- Diagnostic tests: Depending on the suspected cause of the pain, diagnostic tests may be ordered to evaluate the underlying condition further. These tests may include imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasounds to visualize bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues and identify any structural abnormalities, fractures, or degenerative changes. Additionally, nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), or nerve blocks may be performed to assess nerve function and identify any nerve-related problems.
- Laboratory tests: Blood tests or other laboratory tests may be ordered to assess inflammation, infection, autoimmune disorders, or other underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the pain.
How Is Chronic Pain Treated?
Once the doctors understand the underlying cause of your chronic pain, they can create an effective pain management plan. Treatments depend on the location and type of the pain. For example, central nervous system pain may be treated differently from leg pain. Common pain treatments include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
- Electrical nerve stimulation
- Laser treatments
- Nerve blocks
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Epidural injections
- Radiofrequency ablation
The Memorial Pain physicians are experts at interventional pain therapies. They take a comprehensive approach to helping you relieve chronic pain and realize it may take several different pain treatment methods to help you feel your best and recover from your injury or illness. They also understand the emotional effects of chronic pain and help support you on your journey of coping with daily pain.
You don’t have to deal with chronic pain on your own. Effective treatment options and the caring, compassionate team of healthcare providers at Memorial Pain can help you get your life back on track. Call or schedule a consultation online today.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, are commonly used to treat chronic pain and reduce inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries, or menstrual cramps. They work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that promote inflammation and pain.
However, long-term use of NSAIDs may be associated with side effects such as gastrointestinal ulcers, kidney damage, or cardiovascular problems, so they should be used cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
What Is the Best Pain Medication for Chronic Pain?
Determining the “best” pain medicine for chronic pain depends on various factors, including the underlying cause of the pain, the severity of the pain, the individual’s medical history, and any potential side effects or contraindications. Examples of commonly used medications include the following.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Acetaminophen
- Opioid analgesics
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Topical analgesics
- Muscle relaxants
Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections involve the injection of a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, into trigger points or knots in muscles to relieve pain and improve muscle function. These injections can help alleviate pain associated with muscle tension, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, or chronic headaches.
Nerve Block Injections
Nerve block injections involve the injection of local anesthetics, steroids, or other medications into specific nerves or nerve clusters to interrupt pain signals and provide temporary pain relief. Nerve blocks can be used to treat various chronic pain conditions, including neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or chronic back pain.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation, also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, involves the use of heat generated by radiofrequency waves to temporarily disrupt the function of nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. RFA can be used to treat chronic pain conditions such as facet joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, or peripheral nerve pain when other treatments have failed to provide adequate relief. Initially, RFA could temporarily make the chronic pain worse, but this should fade over a few days at most.
Surgical Implants
Surgical implants, such as spinal cord stimulators (SCS) or intrathecal drug delivery systems (pain pumps), are devices implanted under the skin that deliver electrical stimulation or medication directly to the spinal cord or nerve roots to modulate pain signals and for treating chronic pain. These implants are typically considered for individuals with severe, refractory chronic pain who have not responded to conservative treatments.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS therapy involves the use of a small, battery-operated device that delivers low-voltage electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin to stimulate nerves and block pain signals. TENS can be used for treating pain, including musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, or postsurgical pain.
Bioelectric Therapy
Bioelectric therapy, such as neuromodulation or electrotherapy, involves the use of electrical stimulation to modulate the nervous system and manage chronic pain. This may include techniques such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS), peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), or percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS), which can be used to treat chronic pain conditions such as neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or failed back surgery syndrome.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves the use of exercises, stretches, manual techniques, and modalities such as heat, cold, ultrasound, or traction to improve strength, flexibility, mobility, and function, and reduce pain. Physical therapy can be an integral part of the treatment plan for various chronic pain conditions, helping to address underlying musculoskeletal imbalances, improve posture and biomechanics, and promote overall physical well-being.
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, mindfulness meditation, yoga, tai chi, relaxation techniques, or herbal supplements, may be used alone or in combination with conventional treatments to manage chronic pain and improve overall well-being.
While the evidence supporting the effectiveness of alternative therapies for chronic pain varies, many individuals find these approaches helpful for reducing pain, stress, and anxiety, and enhancing relaxation and quality of life. It’s important to discuss alternative therapies with a health care provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific condition.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help with Chronic Pain?
Yes, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing chronic pain and improving overall well-being. Adopting healthy habits and making positive lifestyle modifications can help reduce pain intensity, enhance coping mechanisms, and improve physical function and quality of life for individuals living with chronic pain. Some lifestyle changes that can help manage chronic pain include the following.
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Stress management techniques
- Adequate sleep
- Avoiding harmful habits, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or drug use
Contact the Tulsa Chronic Pain Doctors at Memorial Pain Clinic Today
At Memorial Pain Clinic in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we understand the challenges of living with chronic pain. We are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help you find relief and regain control of your life. Our team of experienced pain management specialists offers a wide range of evidence-based treatments and personalized solutions tailored to address your unique needs and circumstances.
Whether you’re struggling with chronic back pain, neuropathic pain, arthritis, or another pain condition, we are here to support you every step of the way. With a focus on holistic care, we incorporate innovative techniques, cutting-edge therapies, and lifestyle modifications to optimize pain relief and improve overall well-being.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, pain-free future. You don’t have to suffer in silence—let us help you on your journey to better health and wellness.
