Focused Treatment for Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is particularly difficult on patients as it can feel like there’s no end in sight. Unlike their standard counterpart, chronic pain is the result of aging or a condition that lasts longer than 3 to 6 months and could affect a patient their entire life. Specialty pain services are specifically designed to address these issues and improve the patient’s quality of life. The Titusville Area Hospital, in conjunction with the Meadville Medical Center, runs a specialty pain program that focuses on these types of issues and aims to assist patients with minimally invasive treatment plans.
Our multidisciplinary specialists are dedicated to providing an accurate diagnosis and helping patients overcome the challenges of their conditions. Once a diagnosis is made, the team immediately works with the patient to create goals and a customized treatment plan.
Chronic Pain Conditions
It can be hard to determine how long pain will last when it is first discovered, but there are certain conditions that are almost guaranteed to last longer than 6 months. For these issues, a doctor may preemptively recommend a chronic pain treatment plan.
The following conditions have an increased chance of developing chronic pain:
- Nerve Damage / Neuropathic Pain – The nerves are the body’s pain receptors, so when they are damaged, it can be difficult to turn down the pain. Early treatment may be able to prevent a chronic condition. Physical therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, and a variety of other treatments may be used to help manage the condition.
- Cancer – Both the disease and the treatment for this condition are difficult for the patient. Medical research has come a long way in helping patients improve their quality of life when fighting the disease.
- Back/Leg Pain – If conservative therapy involving physical therapy and medication has failed to alleviate back or leg pain, more aggressive treatments may be recommended. Treatment could include behavioral modification and electrotherapy. Generally, pain management specialists try to avoid surgery, but will recommend it if it is clear the patient requires it.
- Headaches & Migraines – Headaches are considered chronic if they occur half of the days out of the month for 3 months in a row. Migraines, in particular, are difficult for the patient but can be reduced with therapies, medication, and lifestyle changes.
- Joint Pain & Arthritis – Arthritis is the most common cause of joint pain, and is a leading cause of chronic pain in the United States. Treatment often involves focus injections and medication. Physical therapy can also be useful.
When to See a Specialist
A patient must be referred by a physician before receiving specialized pain management. If you have a chronic condition, consider asking your doctor about special treatment. The physicians at the clinic should perform an evaluation of your condition, but you can assist them by bringing copies of your medical records. You may also be asked to fill out a brief questionnaire. Review our specialty pain service FAQs for more information.