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Living With Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is more than discomfort that lasts a few days. For many people, it becomes a daily condition that affects work, relationships, sleep, and mental health.
A common question patients ask is:
“What actually qualifies as chronic pain — and when should I get help?”
What Is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is generally defined as pain that lasts longer than 12 weeks, even after the original injury or condition has healed.
Unlike acute pain, which serves as a short-term warning signal, chronic pain may persist for months or years and sometimes occurs without a clear, ongoing cause.
Common Causes of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can develop from many conditions, including:
- Past injuries or trauma
- Arthritis or osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraines or chronic headaches
- Cancer-related pain
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Spinal conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis
Symptoms of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain affects both the body and the mind. Symptoms may include:
- Persistent aching, burning, or sharp pain
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Reduced mobility or flexibility
- Fatigue and poor sleep
- Anxiety or depression
- Difficulty concentrating
Over time, these symptoms can create a cycle where pain worsens stress — and stress worsens pain.
Types of Chronic Pain
Neuropathic Pain
Caused by nerve damage or dysfunction, neuropathic pain may feel:
- Burning
- Shooting
- Electric or stabbing
Common conditions include diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia (after shingles), and nerve compression syndromes.
Nociceptive Pain
This type of pain comes from tissue injury or inflammation and often feels:
- Achy
- Throbbing
- Dull
It’s commonly associated with arthritis, muscle injuries, migraines, and joint conditions.
Common Chronic Pain Conditions
Chronic Back Pain
One of the most common forms of chronic pain, back pain may result from:
- Disc problems
- Arthritis
- Spinal narrowing
- Muscle or ligament strain
It can significantly limit mobility and daily function.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
CRPS is a rare but severe chronic pain condition that may develop after injury or surgery. Symptoms can include:
- Intense burning pain
- Swelling or skin changes
- Sensitivity to touch
- Muscle weakness
Early evaluation is important for symptom management.
Can Chronic Pain Qualify as a Disability?
This is a common and understandable question.
In some cases, chronic pain may contribute to disability eligibility, particularly if it:
- Significantly limits your ability to work
- Impairs daily functioning
- Is supported by medical documentation
Conditions such as severe back disorders, nerve damage, or chronic pain syndromes may be considered — but eligibility is determined on an individual basis and depends on medical records, functional limitations, and program-specific criteria.
A healthcare provider can help document symptoms, treatment history, and functional impact, but does not determine disability approval.
How Is Chronic Pain Diagnosed?
There is no single test for chronic pain. Diagnosis often includes:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Imaging studies (MRI, X-ray, CT)
- Lab testing to rule out underlying conditions
- Pain scales or functional assessments
Your provider will focus on understanding both the cause and the impact of pain on your daily life.
Treatment Options for Chronic Pain
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of pain and may include:
- Medications (anti-inflammatory or nerve-related medications)
- Physical therapy
- Behavioral or cognitive therapies
- Injections or nerve blocks
- Lifestyle adjustments such as posture, ergonomics, and activity pacing
Surgery may be considered in select cases when conservative treatments are not effective.
When to See a Doctor
You should consider medical evaluation if:
- Pain lasts longer than 12 weeks
- It interferes with work, sleep, or daily activities
- Over-the-counter treatments are no longer effective
- You experience numbness, weakness, or coordination problems
Early care can help prevent pain from becoming more difficult to manage.
How BASS Medical Group Can Help
BASS Medical Group offers comprehensive pain management services across Northern California, including Primary Care, specialty referrals, physical therapy coordination, and interventional pain management.
Our team works with you to understand your pain, improve function, and support long-term quality of life.
To request an appointment, visit bassmedicalgroup.com or contact your local BASS office.
