Every September, the American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA), along with several organizations and medical facilities around the world, observe Pain Awareness Month (PAM). It is an occasion for raising awareness of the different health issues involving pain and pain management.
The ACPA first began the Pain Awareness Month in 2001 among 80 organizations in both the health and consumer industry. Succeeding events tapped legislators and other sectors, including mass media, to increase the public’s understanding of the struggles and stigma that people with chronic pain go through.
What You Can Do for the Pain Awareness Month
The theme of Pain Awareness Month for 2019 is “Let’s Talk About Pain” #LetsTalkAboutPain. The aim is to encourage people to speak up about their experiences as a patient, a health worker, or a policymaker.
Supporters of this cause are encouraged to change their social media profiles with #LetsTalkAboutPain frame for the month of September. Aside from talking about their experiences in various platforms, proponents of Pain Awareness Month may also participate in online events from the comforts of their homes.
There are also regular contests on social media, where participants may win amazing prices like a kinesiology tape, pain devices, and a book on pain management. Sharing details of these online events, as well as infographics and other resource materials, should help drum up interest and attention from people who may not be completely aware of the effects of living with chronic pain.
Understanding Pain and Pain Management
In the U.S., 20.4% of adults live with chronic pain that disrupts their daily activities and mobility, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Of these numbers, at least 20 million individuals struggle with high-impact pain that significantly restricts the activities they can do and reduce the quality of their life.
Pain is the most common reason for doctor visits thus driving the cost of medical care. But only 30% of pain reduction is typically rendered among the many treatments available to patients. Whereas, minority groups receive less pain management options, per a study at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
Anyone who has suffered physical chronic pain has a different experience as the next person. However, the underlying factors are the same and the cases may develop due to the following:
- An injury or trauma to the body
- An infection
- A condition like arthritis, nerve damage or fibromyalgia
- Back problems
- Headaches or migraines
The severity of pain may range from a dull aching condition to a stabbing pain that might be accompanied by throbbing, burning, or stinging. It may also cause some soreness and stiffness, and induce problems with sleep, a lack of energy, and mood changes.
As a result, people suffering from pain that continues for longer than 3 months may also experience mental health issues, a lack of self-esteem, and feelings of frustration or anger.
There are many means to alleviate the suffering of someone with chronic pain. Aside from conventional methods like pain killers and surgery, there are also emerging treatments that are as effective, if not better. Allay Health and Wellness alternative pain management in Palm Beach Gardens is a trusted facility that offers these kinds of services.
Pain treatment using alternative pain management, Palm Beach County
If you or someone you know is suffering from pain, it would be best to see a specialist in alternative pain management, Palm Beach Gardens as soon as possible to facilitate the best treatment plan. Some pain might be irreversible, depending on the cause but with the right program and treatment methods, the patient can still live a pretty good life despite their condition.
Don’t hesitate to visit Allay Health and Wellness Center. If you would like more information on the pain treatments that we provide, contact us or
call us at (561) 421-6444.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.