Acute Pain Specialist

What is the difference between acute and chronic pain?

Chronic pain refers to ongoing pain that lasts six or more months. Acute pain, on the other hand, lasts less than six months. It comes on suddenly and is typically caused by some type of tissue damage. 

People with acute pain are typically able to return to their normal lives once their condition is treated, while people with chronic pain may require ongoing care to keep their symptoms under control.

Chronic pain refers to ongoing pain that lasts six or more months. Chronic pain is typically caused by an underlying condition like arthritis or fibromyalgia. Acute pain comes on suddenly and is typically caused by a specific illness or injury.

What are some causes of acute pain?

In most cases, acute pain is caused by some type of tissue damage. A number of musculoskeletal conditions can result in acute pain. Ruptured tendons and ligaments are a leading cause of acute pain. Tendons and ligaments are different types of connective tissue that hold together your bones, joints, and muscles. 

You can experience a tendon or ligament rupture as the result of blunt force or wear-and-tear that weakens your tissue over time. When a tendon or ligament rupture occurs, it typically results in sudden, severe pain and weakness in the affected area. 

There are a number of additional causes of acute pain including bone fractures, burns, and cuts. Many people experience acute pain following surgery or other medical procedures. In most cases, once the damaged tissue heals, the acute pain goes away. 

How is acute pain diagnosed?

An accurate diagnosis is essential to successfully relieving your pain. To perform your diagnosis, your doctor begins with a physical exam and review of your medical history. You should be prepared to discuss your symptoms as well as the details of your pain, such as when it started and whether it was triggered by an injury or medical procedure. 

Depending on your condition, your doctor may perform a number of imaging tests. For your convenience, Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC offers a number of onsite imaging tests like MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays. Once you’ve been diagnosed, you and your doctor work together to determine the most effective way to relieve your pain. 

What treatments are available?

Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC offers a number of advanced and effective solutions for acute pain. In most cases, acute pain can be treated through nonsurgical means. To relieve your acute pain, your doctor may recommend a number of conservative treatments including:

• RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
• Physical therapy
• Immobilization (splint or brace)
• Viscosupplementation injections
• Steroid injections
• Regenerative medicine
• Shockwave therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication

If you suffer from severe pain or tissue damage, your condition may require surgery for effective relief. The orthopedic surgeons at Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC specialize in a number of robotic and minimally invasive procedures. To find out which treatment is right for your acute pain, schedule your appointment by phone or online today.