Treatment Options for those Suffering from Chronic Pain and Opioid Addiction

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Those suffering from chronic pain are more at risk for an opioid addiction. The correlation can easily be seen: those in pain usually depend on various types of opioids for their pain treatment or management. These two conditions are distinct and are expressed in different ways for every individual. This is why many medical professionals take a multi-dimensional approach to the management chronic pain, and address the high possibility of an opioid addiction.

Similar to other chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes, both pain and addictive conditions typically have psycho-behavioral and biological factors that shape how the conditions are expressed. It is therefore important that physicians thoroughly comb and analyze patients’ complete medical history. Treatment options are designed based on consistent dialogue. Patients are also fully encouraged to engage in self-care and constant introspection. It must be noted that both conditions require long-term clinical care so it is essential that the patient feels comfortable with his or her clinician so that an effective treatment plan can be designed and implemented.

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The patient should also understand that pain and addiction share a number of similar clinical features such as mood and sleep disturbances, functional losses, and high levels of stress. Usually, one condition reinforces the other. Treatment plans will generally involve biopsychosocial components to improve recovery.

Lastly, it must be noted that while addiction can be fully treated, chronic pain can only be properly managed. Medical research is still tracking down a cure for chronic pain.

Live a full and productive life despite any pain condition with the help of Dr. Melanie Novak, a specialist for all types of pain including headaches, neck and lower back pain, shoulder, hip and knee discomfort, and various types of joint pain. For more information on her practice, follow this Twitter account.