Various studies have sought to find out the exact relationship between chronic pain and depression,but so far nothing comprehensive has been found. What is clear is that the two conditions frequently coexist and fuel one another. At Blakehurst Chiropractic we offer holistic chiropractic care to assist with pain management and depression.
What Do We Know About Chronic Pain?
Chronic or ongoing pain is a condition that does not self-heal and that does not respond to medication. We also know that severe pain can lead to depression because of changes to sleep habits and stress on interpersonal relationships. It can also result in financial and work stress and isolate you from social events.
What Do We Know About Depression?
Depression can cause physical discomforts like headache and back pain. It can also be caused by pain from injury and pains that are associated to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Depression is estimated to be three to four times more prevalent in sufferers of chronic pain than the general population. What’s more, between 30 and 80% of those who experience chronic pain will experience depression.
Depression also has a direct bearing on the treatment of pain, in that it can negatively influence your treatment – even if you have surgery. Treating depression is not only important within itself – it’s also important for chronic pain management outcomes.
Chronic Pain And Depression – Is There A Connection
Because chronic pain and depression are so inextricably linked, each can exacerbate the other.
Chiropractic care is complementary and can be used with other forms of treatment that you may employ to help with chronic pain to assist with depression.
At Blakehurst Chiropractic we find an integrated approach is the most beneficial to patients who need assistance coping with chronic pain and depression.
We can help you to:
Get an accurate diagnosis
You may already have consulted with different practitioners who were unable to find the cause of your chronic pain. You may even have heard that it’s all in your head – a belief that was commonly held up until very recently.
Our experienced team will work with you to find the cause of your chronic pain so that we can begin with the most appropriate treatment plan.
Keep active
In order to assist your chronic pain and depression holistically, it is important that you remain active and that you don’t avoid physical activity because you do not want to feel pain. To a chronic pain sufferer this might not seem like very practical advice, but the true value of a chiropractor lies in being able to make these modifications so that you can continue to stay active.
Your chiropractor will ensure that you are doing the most beneficial activities for chronic pain and depression, and will advise you on the amount you should be doing.
Make lifestyle modifications
Chronic pain might have cost you certain hobbies, friendships or activities but in order to assist with your depression it’s essential that you get your life back. Your chiropractor will work with you to make the necessary lifestyle changes that can help you with pain management that much better.
Advise you on relaxation techniques
Chronic pain and depression that does not respond to pain medications requires a broader approach that could involve techniques like meditation, deep tissue massage, dry needling and acupuncture.
At Blakehurst Chiropractic we employ a range of non-surgical, non-invasive techniques to relieve pain and restore joint mobility. Our approach includes physical exercises, therapeutic exercises and spinal manipulation to realign your posture and assist with chronic pain management.
There is no reason to suffer in silence. We can help you deal with chronic pain and depression. Please contact us for a convenient appointment: (02) 9546 6033.