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Chronic Pain in Columbia

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Gwen Brown

I was referred to Pinnacle by my physician because of painful hips due to arthritis. Brandon was my PT, and worked miracles with my hips and core. Bonus: no more lower back pain. Highly recommended! 

K Cannon

The team at Pinnacle has worked together cohesively to address and help correct some long term pain/movement problems I have had. Their protocol is completely different than any other PT place I have been to and their willingness to fully comprehend and resolve my issues, questions, and concerns has been not only refreshing, but has also resulted in fantastic results. 

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that persists for extended periods, causing significant discomfort and distress. Unlike acute pain, which may last for hours or weeks and often has a clear cause, chronic pain can endure for months or years, often linked to conditions like arthritis, nerve damage, or degenerative disc disease. Its intensity may fluctuate over time, but it rarely vanishes entirely. Fortunately, lasting relief and pain management options, such as physical therapy, can help individuals reclaim their quality of life.

Understanding Chronic Pain in Columbia

Chronic pain differs from acute pain through its persistence and complex origins. While acute pain often stems from injuries like a sports injury or surgery and resolves quickly, chronic pain lingers, defying conventional explanations. It can result from nerve damage, any past injury such as a strained back, or conditions like peripheral neuropathy and fibromyalgia. Age-related factors, including degenerative changes in the nervous system, can also contribute to chronic pain.
 
Diagnosing chronic pain may require advanced techniques like neurology evaluations or imaging for conditions such as radiculopathy, lumbar stenosis, or inflammation. Physical therapists and pain management specialists play a pivotal role in identifying the root causes and offering tailored treatments, such as manual therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or neuromodulation. These professionals address complex cases, including low back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and pelvic pain, restoring function and range of motion.

Common Forms of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain manifests in various forms, often linked to medical conditions requiring specialized care. Common chronic pain conditions include:

  • Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • Headaches and Migraines
  • Pelvic Pain
  • Peripheral Neuropathy
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Tennis Elbow
Each condition may require a multidisciplinary approach, combining physical therapy, medication, and interventional pain management techniques like nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation.

The Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of effective pain management in Columbia. It addresses the root causes of pain while improving range of motion and reducing the need for invasive interventions like surgery. Therapists use evidence-based techniques to manage conditions like degenerative disc disease, muscle injuries, or even chronic conditions like diabetes-related pain.
 
Key approaches include:

  • Manual Therapy: Targeting affected tissues, joints, and muscles to relieve tension and improve range of motion.
  • Exercise and Strength Training: Custom exercises to restore strength, reduce inflammation, and address stress-related pain.
  • Alternative Therapies: Techniques like acupuncture, biofeedback, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to reduce reliance on opioids and improve mental health.
In-office treatments are often complemented with at-home strategies, empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery. These include stretches, relaxation techniques like meditation, and tools for stress management, essential for improving mental health alongside physical well-being.

Trusting Columbia Physical Therapy Specialists

Our highly skilled team of physical therapists in Columbia specializes in helping individuals manage chronic pain effectively. Our licensed specialists provide personalized care to alleviate pain and restore function. Whether you seek relief from chronic pain or desire hands-on treatment and a range of therapeutic options, our dedicated staff is here to support you on your journey to a pain-free life. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.