Chronic pain is more prevalent in America than any other disease. While the common conception is that pain is more of an affliction for the aging or elderly, the truth is that pain can effect anyone. Currently 1.5 billion people suffer from some type of chronic pain. Some of the most common types of pain are neck and back pain.
Who is Affected by Low Back Pain?
Right now 26 million people are affected by lower back pain, people from all walks of life between ages 20 to 64. Americans spend about $50 billion dollars a year to find relief including on medications such as NSAIDs, narcotic pain relievers, muscle relaxers and oral steroids. Over 80% of the populace, will at some time, experience back pain in their life.
Who is Affected by Neck Pain?
Chronic Neck pain is also a huge problem for working Americans. It is the second most commonly reported pain. Over 45% of workers deal with bouts of neck pain each year. 10% to 15% of All Americans suffer from neck pain each year. According to JAMA(Journal of the American Medical Association) the total amount that Americans have spent on pain has increased by 65% since 1997.
What are My Treatment Options?
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Pain Management Through Medications
There are several medications that can be found over the counter and through prescription that can help manage pain. Obviously, all medications have their own particular risks and side effects, so it is important to consultant with a physician about any preexisting conditions.
Pain Management Through Physical Therapy
Many patients have found relief for their pain through physical therapy including spinal treatments. Exercises, such as yoga or aerobics can help to manage pain in many chronic pain sufferers.
Surgery and Artificial Disc Replacements
Minimally invasive spinal surgery, including artificial disc replacements, is able to help relieve patients of chronic pain. With minimally invasive spinal surgery, surgeons only need to make a small incision and patients get to go home same day. The recovery time is generally between three to five days.
As you can see, you don’t have to just deal with your chronic pain. There are many lifestyle, pharmaceutical and surgical means to help manage pain. In order to find the right treatment for you, the first step is to confer with your doctor to arrange an individual pain management treatment plan.