Chronic pain
What is chronic pain?
Chronic pain is defined by the Canadian government as pain that lasts longer than three months and has an impact on the emotional health of the individual. Pain can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary chronic pain is a problem in itself, defined by the diagnosis it is given (for example: fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome, any musculoskeletal pain that is said to be “non-specific”, etc.). The term secondary is used when the chronic pain is a consequence of another diagnosis, such as pain related to cancer, surgery or any other condition that causes pain that lasts longer than the normal healing time.
Its impact
It is estimated that one in five Canadians experience chronic pain. Unfortunately, living with chronic pain affects many areas of life (general health, quality of life, mental and emotional health). Chronic pain also leads to an increased risk of suicide, congestive fatigue, decreased energy, sleep disorders, decreased productivity at work (or at school), etc. It is therefore important to treat it in order to avoid or minimize its impact on people’s well-being.
Osteopathy and chronic pain
The osteopathic approach to chronic pain is much the same as for any other pain. A subjective and objective assessment is completed and a treatment plan is offered to the patient. It is important to understand that osteopathic care will most likely alleviate chronic pain, but should be noted that for best results a team of healthcare professionals should be consulted to obtain maximum benefits.
What does its assessment/approach include?
The osteopath’s holistic approach is to assess not only the areas of discomfort, but the whole body, and to focus treatment on areas where there is a lack of mobility of structures. The three major osteopathic systems are assessed:
- the parietal system – which includes the muscles, joints;
- the visceral system – which includes the organs of the abdomen and thorax
- the cranio-sacral system – which includes the head and sacrum.
The osteopath’s objective in the management of chronic pain
The osteopath’s goal is always to restore mobility to the structures and the body as a whole. Increased mobility of the body not only improves the ability to move, but also contributes to the reduction of discomfort experienced in daily life.
Since the appointments are for pain management, the osteopath decides, with the client, how often the appointments should take place in order to maintain a satisfactory quality of life for the client.
Finally, the management of chronic pain can be more effective for the patient when it is managed by several health professionals (physician, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, massage therapist, kinesiologist, etc.). The osteopath can therefore refer as needed when he or she believes that a consultation with another professional would be beneficial for the patient.
An osteopathic consultation could greatly improve your ability to manage your pain and thus promote better overall health.