Chronic pain is a pervasive issue that affects many individuals, with the Singapore Medical Association estimating that between 8% to 45% of Singapore’s population experience chronic pain.
Unlike acute pain, which is a direct response to an injury and subsides with healing, chronic pain persists for extended periods, often without a clear cause.
This type of pain can last for months or even years, leading to various physical and emotional challenges for the sufferer as well as their families and loved ones. Understanding what chronic pain is and how it can be managed is crucial for anyone experiencing (or who knows someone experiencing) constant back pain, chronic pain types, or other related conditions.
Common Types of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain manifests in several forms, each affecting patients differently. Some primary chronic pain types include:
- Musculoskeletal Pain: Musculoskeletal pain involves the muscles, bones, and joints. Conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, and constant back pain (lumbar spondylosis) fall under this category. This type of pain can result in stiffness, inflammation, and limited mobility, severely impacting daily activities and quality of life.
- Neuropathic Pain: Neuropathic pain is caused by damage to the nervous system. It often presents as burning, shooting, or stabbing sensations. Common conditions associated with neuropathic pain include diabetic neuropathy, sciatica, and post-herpetic neuralgia. This type of pain can be particularly challenging to treat, as it does not always respond well to traditional pain relief methods.
- Chronic Cancer Pain: Chronic cancer pain is experienced by patients undergoing cancer treatment or those in remission. The pain can arise from the cancer itself or as a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Managing this type of pain is crucial for maintaining the patient’s comfort and quality of life during and after treatment.
Each type of chronic pain requires a tailored approach to treatment, underscoring the importance of consulting with a pain management specialist in Singapore about a personalised treatment plan.
Common Causes of Chronic Pain
Identifying the cause of chronic pain can be complex, as it often results from a combination of factors. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Injury and Trauma: Injuries from accidents, sports, or repetitive strain can lead to long-term pain. Even after the initial injury heals, residual pain may persist due to nerve damage or other complications.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis are known to cause chronic pain. These illnesses often involve ongoing inflammation or neurological changes that result in persistent discomfort.
- Surgical Procedures: Post-surgical pain is common and can sometimes become chronic. Factors such as nerve damage during surgery or incomplete healing can contribute to long-term pain relief challenges.
- Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate the perception of pain, creating a vicious cycle. Emotional distress can amplify physical symptoms, making pain management more difficult.
Understanding the causes of chronic pain is essential for understanding how long chronic pain may last and the suitable treatments it requires.
Seeking Pain Management and Relief for Chronic Pain in Singapore
When chronic pain becomes too much to handle and begins to impact daily quality of life, seeking professional help from a pain management clinic in Singapore is vital.
Physicians specialising in pain management can offer treatments that seek to not only relieve immediate pain but also help with the management of chronic pain symptoms in the long term.
At The Pain Clinic, our doctor, Dr. Ho Kok Yuen, is recognised for his experience and expertise in performing minimally invasive interventions, offering pain relief to his patients. With advanced qualifications in sports medicine and pain management, Dr. Ho offers a unique perspective to help patients manage their pain effectively.
Treatments offered by our clinic include:
Each of these treatments is tailored to the patient’s specific condition following an initial consultation, ensuring a personalised approach to pain relief throughout the entire treatment process.
If you’re experiencing chronic pain and looking for professional assistance, consult The Pain Clinic in Singapore to explore your treatment options and start your journey towards relief and improved quality of life.