The Mind-Body Connection: The Relationship Between Pain and Mental Health
Chronic pain and mental health are often intertwined. Here’s what you need to know about the relationship between pain and mental health and how addressing your physical pain can improve your mental wellness.
How Physical Pain Affects Mental Health
People living with chronic pain are at an increased risk for mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. For example, chronic pain can lead to exhaustion and irritability, making it harder to go out and socialize, ultimately leading to feelings of isolation and depression. For others, the concern of having a pain flare-up in public increases stress and anxiety. Additionally, if your pain leaves you unable to contribute at work or home, you may experience low self-worth or shame. Sleep deprivation is also common in people with chronic pain due to the physical discomfort of their conditions. All of this creates psychological stress and can make your pain feel even worse and more difficult to manage.
The constant presence of pain can be incredibly draining, impacting every aspect of daily life. Simple tasks become monumental challenges, and the perpetual struggle to manage pain can be both physically and emotionally exhausting. This relentless battle can erode one's quality of life, leading to a sense of hopelessness and frustration.
Addressing Physical Pain
If pain is having a negative impact on your mental health and quality of life, it’s crucial that you address it at the source. Fortunately, there are a myriad of ways to treat pain without resorting to surgery or medications. At The Spine & Sports Health Center, we specialize in pain management to treat a wide range of conditions from head to toe. Starting with a comprehensive diagnostic process, we hone in on the source of pain and consider all aspects of a patient’s lifestyle to develop a personalized plan for long-term pain relief and recovery. Our treatment specialties include:
Interventional Pain Management
Our interventional pain management doctors specialize in pain-blocking techniques, like injections, nerve blocks, and spinal cord stimulation, as alternatives to orthopedic surgery. All of our physicians employ the latest and most advanced treatment options available, and the vast majority of our patients find relief without resorting to surgery or drugs.
Physical Therapy
Our physical therapists use both active and passive physical therapy to help our patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility, while also providing pain relief.
Chiropractic Care
Our chiropractic services provide a natural yet effective approach to healing. Our team can address a wide range of injuries, improve flexibility and range of motion, and improve circulation, which can help boost the immune system and heighten energy levels. This can not only improve your physical pain but your overall quality of life as well.
Pain Ends Here
The mind and body are connected, and if you’re experiencing pain, it’s important to treat it before it negatively affects your mental health. Whether your pain is in your spine, neck, shoulders, or anywhere else, the experienced team at The Spine & Sports Center has the tools and expertise to provide relief. For more information or to schedule an appointment in Hoboken, Jersey City, or Bayonne, NJ, contact us today.
