Chronic Pain Management: What Kind of Pain Do I Have?

When we experience typical pain, there is usually an injury to the body, and after healing, the pain signals stop. However, when the pain persists, we may start to question if something went wrong with the healing process. Understanding chronic pain management begins with identifying the kind of pain you have.

Recent research shows that up to 90% of chronic pain is related to neuroplastic pain. This could be why you might have been referred to a behavioral health specialist instead of a neurologist for chronic pain management. Neuroplastic pain suggests that there may not be structural damage to the body. Instead, the pain is actually processed in your brain. To be clear, this doesn’t mean “it’s all in your head.” The pain is very real and has a real impact on your quality of life. Brain imaging shows that the same areas of the brain activate, whether the pain is physical or emotional.

But how can pain in your back be caused by the brain rather than by an issue in your back? Failed back surgeries are so common there’s even a term for it: failed back surgery syndrome. Surgeons often don't mention that many people with spinal abnormalities, such as herniated discs, do not experience chronic pain. There is little correlation between spinal issues and chronic pain levels. While doctors are well-meaning, they sometimes search for a physical explanation for your pain to avoid invalidating it, yet this approach can lead to misdiagnosis.

The Role of Neuroplastic Pain in Chronic Pain Management

Neuroplastic pain is a fascinating way our brain tries to protect us. With more knowledge about neuroplasticity, we can adopt chronic pain management approaches that have a long-term impact on our well-being. If you’ve been on a rollercoaster of treatments that bring only temporary relief, you’re not alone. The Fear-Pain Cycle, a well-studied aspect of chronic pain, explains why treatments may help for a short time but don’t provide a lasting solution.

The good news is that we can retrain our brains to perceive body sensations differently, breaking the Fear-Pain Cycle. This process of chronic pain management can help you enjoy more pain-free days and activities that mean the most to you, like spending time with friends and family.

Determining the Type of Pain You Have

If you’re wondering whether your chronic pain falls within the 90% related to neuroplastic pain or the 10% associated with structural damage, I can help. As a chronic pain management therapist, I offer a free consultation to assess your pain type and guide you toward an approach that provides real relief. Reach out today, and let’s work together to reclaim your life from chronic pain.