Chronic Pain Affects Millions of Americans

Whether you suffer from chronic pain due to cancer or an aggravated back injury, you are not alone. Chronic pain affects about 116 million Americans and, according to a new report from the Institute of Medicine, written at the request of the Department of Health and Human Services, constitutes a national health crisis.

Despite the prevalence of chronic pain, there is a shortage of physicians and healthcare professionals trained in the management of these conditions. In addition to a lack of qualified professionals treating those with chronic pain, many sufferers are not aware of the variety of treatments available to them. Medications and surgeries are effective, but there are a variety of clinically-proven physical therapy programs that can help reduce pain and promote an active lifestyle. For example:

• Lymphadema Therapy
  Persistent pain, limited mobility and weakness can limit a woman’s function after a breast cancer surgery. The goal of Breast Cancer Physical Therapy is to restore and maximize function.
• Manual Therapy
  Whether you’re an athlete, an expectant mother, or a post-operative patient, massage can help relieve stress, decrease muscle tension and stimulates the release of endorphins that work as your body’s natural pain killer.
• McKenzie Method
  The McKenzie Method of therapy addresses spine and back pain. By educating themselves on this method, patients are provided with the tools and exercises they need to successfully treat and manage their own pain.
• Myofascial Release
  Myofascial release is a therapeutic massage that gently manipulates the fascia, releasing excessive pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, osseous structures and organs.

+ Suffering from chronic pain? Meet with a Hampton Roads pain management expert.
+ Find an experienced physical therapist near you to help you treat your chronic pain.