Chronic Pain

What causes chronic pain?

Chronic pain describes persistent or intense pain that lasts six months or longer. You might experience chronic pain after a fall, auto accident, or other unexpected injury.

There are also several medical conditions that contribute to chronic pain, including:

• Stroke
• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Herniated discs
• Spinal cord injuries
• Spinal stenosis (spinal narrowing)

In some cases, chronic pain can be a side effect of surgery, especially if treatment causes nerve damage. You might also experience physical pain because of mental or emotional disorders, including depression.

North Texas Brain and Spine Center offers advanced diagnostic testing to identify the root cause of chronic pain.

The team of experienced neurologists provides nonsurgical therapies and state-of-the-art surgical solutions for chronic pain conditions. They provide educational resources and help you make the most informed decisions about your treatment options.

When should I schedule a chronic pain consultation?

Schedule a chronic pain consultation at North Texas Brain and Spine Center if you have back, neck, or joint pain that limits what you can do physically. 

You can also meet with the neurology team if chronic pain isn’t manageable with rest, lifestyle modifications, and over-the-counter medications.

The physicians listen to your symptoms and review your personal and family medical histories. They also complete a physical exam and may order bloodwork, X-rays, or a nerve conduction study to determine what’s causing chronic pain.

The team works with local specialists, including psychotherapists who can assess the impact chronic pain has on your mental health and quality of life.

How is chronic pain treated?

North Texas Brain and Spine Center offers personalized pain management solutions to help you achieve lasting pain relief.

Depending on the cause of your chronic pain, your care plan may include:

• Oral medications
• Nerve blocks
• Epidural steroid injections
• Spinal cord stimulation

You might be a candidate for surgery if you have bone or nerve damage in your spine that contributes to pain and loss of mobility. The surgeons use the latest minimally invasive and open surgical techniques to repair or remove damaged vertebrae, herniated discs, or bone spurs.

During follow-up appointments, the team assesses your progress with treatment and may refer you to a physical therapist or other specialist for additional care.

Call the North Texas Brain and Spine Center office near you today to schedule a chronic pain consultation.