Types of Pain: Acute vs. Chronic

We will all experience pain, whether a stubbed toe or something far more serious. To help patients with pain management in Sedona or Scottsdale, AZ, Dr. Estelle Farrell, a double board-certified specialist and osteopathic physiatrist, established the Valley of the Sun Institute for Pain Management to help patients find a path to better function and living.

What Is Acute Pain?

Pain starts in the receptor nerve cells below the skin, and the pain messages are transmitted to the brain via the nervous system superhighway.  

Acute pain is classified as new and short-term pain. It's usually sharp and intense, arriving suddenly, often as an early warning sign that something is wrong in the body. It can be a symptom of, or be caused by:

• Illness or disease
• Surgery
• Trauma
• Injury

Acute pain can last up to three months and should disappear once the underlying cause has been addressed. Acute pain that lasts several weeks or months may be referred to as subacute pain.

What Is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is pain or discomfort that lasts beyond six months and can be caused by:

• Illness or disease
• Musculoskeletal issues
• Injuries or trauma
• Unknown causes

Chronic pain is common throughout the United States and is a regular complaint in outpatient facilities. Unfortunately, chronic pain can be difficult to treat successfully, especially if the underlying cause is unknown. Constant chronic pain can strongly affect your brain chemistry as well as your physical and mental well-being.

Doctors focus on providing dedicated pain management to Sedona and Scottsdale, AZ residents. They aim to help patients live better and happier lives and improve their overall quality of life.

What Are the Differences Between Chronic and Acute Pain?

There are several identifiable differences between acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is short-lived and self-limiting, while chronic pain is long-lasting, especially if there is no discernable reason for the pain you are experiencing. 

Acute pain is normally associated with one sub-category of pain type, whereas chronic pain sufferers may experience multiple types of pain simultaneously.

Finally, the approaches to treating these two categories of pain are different. Acute pain is usually treated with stronger pain medications and more intensive interventions. In contrast, chronic pain requires long-term lifestyle adjustments and a multidisciplinary approach to overall care, requiring a collaborative effort from the patient and the healthcare providers.

Contact Details

For comprehensive pain evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for acute or chronic pain, look no further than the care of Dr. Farrell of the Valley of the Sun Institute for Pain Management. Our team offers pain management in Sedona, AZ, with our offices at (928) 327-1212 or Scottsdale, AZ, at (480) 955-1515, so connect today.