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Therapist treating patient's lower back for chronic pain

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is more than just a lingering discomfort. It’s a condition that can affect every part of your daily life. When pain goes on for weeks, months, or even years, it can affect your work, your sleep, your mobility, and your overall well-being.

At Sandia Injury Center, patients always get personalized and non-invasive care that is focused on identifying the root cause of their chronic pain. Then, we can work together to create a path towards long-term relief.

What Defines Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is generally defined as pain that lasts longer than three months or continues beyond the expected period of healing. Unlike acute pain, which comes, and then disappears as healing occurs, chronic pain can continue on even after the initial issue has been resolved.

This type of pain may be constant or it can come and go. Over time, it may impact a person’s physical and mental health, too, which makes it even more important to treat.

Common Sources of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can come from a number of conditions. In many cases, it occurs due to an untreated injury or an underlying structural issues within the body.

Some of the most common causes include:

  • Old injuries that never fully healed

  • Repetitive strain from work or daily activities

  • Degenerative conditions such as arthritis or disc disease

  • Nerve irritation or compression

  • Poor posture leading to long-term strain

  • Musculoskeletal imbalances affecting movement

  • Auto accidents or workplace injuries

Since chronic pain often has a number of factors that contribute to it, a full evaluation is necessary to ensure we fully understand the condition.

Symptoms Associated With Chronic Pain

Chronic pain feels different depending on the cause and the person. It can affect one part of the body or several parts.

Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent aching, stiffness, or soreness

  • Sharp or burning sensations

  • Reduced range of motion

  • Muscle tightness or weakness

  • Fatigue or decreased energy levels

  • Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities

In some cases, a person with chronic pain may experience stress, anxiety, or have difficulty concentrating.

A Comprehensive Approach to Treatment

Here at Sandia Injury Center, chronic pain is treated using a whole-body approach. Instead of only focusing on the area where pain it felt, we identify and correct the underlying issues that could be causing the pain.

Chiropractic care plays an important role in restoring proper alignment in the body, as well as improving how it moves and functions. By taking a look at this, and making changes in the body’s alignment, the pressure on the nerves can be reduced and the body can heal more effectively.

Treatment plans may include:

  • Spinal adjustments to improve alignment and mobility

  • Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension

  • Corrective exercises to strengthen supporting muscles

  • Stretching programs to improve flexibility

  • Postural guidance to minimize daily strain

Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific condition and long-term goals.

What to Expect From Your Care Plan

All of our patients start with a detailed evaluation to determine the source of their chronic pain. Since no two cases are the same, a personalized approach is very important.

Our evaluation may involve:

  • A full review of medical history and symptoms

  • Physical examination and movement analysis

  • Assessment of posture and spinal alignment

  • Neurological testing, if needed

  • Imaging to confirm underlying conditions

Once the contributing factors are identified, a structured treatment plan is developed to address both the symptoms and the root cause.

Woman suffering from chronic back pain
Healthcare professional examining man for chronic pain

Managing Chronic Pain Outside the Clinic

In addition to in-office treatment, lifestyle changes play a critical role in managing chronic pain. Patients are provided with guidance on how to support their recovery at home.

Helpful strategies may include:

  • Staying active with appropriate exercise

  • Maintaining proper posture throughout the day

  • Practicing stress management techniques

  • Following a consistent sleep routine

  • Using proper ergonomics at work and home

These habits can help reduce flare-ups and support ongoing progress.

Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief

If you are living with chronic pain, it can feel very overwhelming. The good news is that help is available. By addressing the cause of your pain, you can achieve long-term results.

At Sandia Injury Center, the focus is to help our patients regain control of their health, improve their mobility, and return to a more active lifestyle.

If chronic pain is affecting you, reach out for an appointment with Sandia Injury Center.

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