Chronic Pain

What Is Chronic Pain?

Typically, pain signals travel from an injury site through the spinal cord to the brain and decrease as the injury heals. Chronic pain, however, continues long after the initial injury is resolved. It may persist for weeks, months, or even years—affecting not only your physical abilities but also your mental and emotional well-being.

Chronic pain can appear anywhere in the body and may feel sharp, dull, constant, or intermittent. It can limit your mobility, interfere with daily tasks, and drain your energy and motivation. Addressing it early with physical therapy is key to preventing long-term complications.

Common Causes and Types of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain often stems from previous injuries, such as muscle strains, accidents, or infections. In some cases, it may be linked to underlying health conditions. Pain is generally classified into two major types:

• Nociceptive Pain: This type of pain originates in muscles, joints, and other soft tissues. Conditions like arthritis, back pain, pelvic pain, and tension headaches fall into this category. Physical therapy can significantly reduce or eliminate this type of pain.
• Neuropathic Pain: Caused by nerve damage, neuropathic pain is often more intense and described as burning, stabbing, or shooting. It can occur with conditions like diabetic neuropathy, phantom limb pain, or post-mastectomy pain. A combination of physical therapy and techniques like electrotherapy is often used to manage it.

How Physical Therapy Treats Chronic Pain

While medications may offer temporary relief, they often lead to dependence and do not address the root of the problem. Physical therapy focuses on long-term recovery by improving strength, flexibility, and mobility. Your treatment plan may include a variety of techniques, such as:

• Deep Tissue Massage: Direct pressure is applied to tight muscles, ligaments, and tendons to release tension and relieve pain.
• Hot and Cold Therapy: Heat increases circulation and promotes healing, while cold helps reduce inflammation and muscle spasms.
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate nerves and release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
• Ultrasound Therapy: Provides deep heat to tissues, increasing circulation, reducing pain, and improving flexibility in muscles and joints.

Personalized Physical Therapy Plans

Effective pain relief requires a personalized approach. Your physical therapist will perform a thorough assessment to determine the source of your pain and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your goals and needs.

Physical therapy treatments typically include both active and passive modalities. Active treatments involve therapeutic exercises, while passive treatments (such as manual therapy, massage, or heat therapy) support the healing process. You’ll also receive guidance on incorporating ergonomic techniques into your daily routine and be given a structured home exercise plan to continue progress between sessions.

Throughout your recovery journey, your therapist will monitor your progress, help you overcome challenges, and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Together, you’ll track goals, measure improvements, and stay focused on long-term recovery.

Start Your Recovery Today

You don’t have to live with chronic pain. Physical therapy can help you regain your strength, improve mobility, and restore your quality of life—without relying on medications or surgery.

If you’re struggling with chronic pain, contact us at our Greenwood, IN center to schedule a one-on-one consultation. Our experienced physical therapists are ready to help you return to a healthier, more active life. Let us support you every step of the way.