Background on Chronic Pain

Information provided through a recent article in the Bangor Daily News suggests that many Americans, over 100 million, suffer from chronic pain. Lower back pain is reported as the most common chronic pain symptom. 
About 10% of American adults report using some type of pain relief drug, whether over-the-counter or prescription. Some of these drugs are anti-inflammatories, which can cause long-lasting to damage to internal organs.  Some of these drugs cause over 15,000 deaths per year and result in over 100,000 hospitalizations.  Additionally, some of these prescriptions are addictive and can result in serious drug abuse.  If painkilling drugs do not effectively manage pain, some patients turn to more aggressive and potentially harmful treatments.  These may include surgery, nerve stimulation, and steroid shots. 

The majority of chronic pain begins in the joints and muscles, but then can move into the central nervous system. There is also research that has shown that persistent pain can re-map brain pathways, making pain worsen over time.  To manage this, it is best to consult with your physician as soon as you begin to feel chronic pain symptoms.  Catching the problem early may make treatment easier, less time consuming, and more effective.

Attorney Doug Stoehr takes cases for clients who are experiencing chronic pain due to an accident or injury due to the fault of another.  For more information on his Altoona, PA area practice, please visit his website at  http://www.stoehrlaw.com or call his office at 814-946-4100.