Pain’s Hidden Toll: Understanding the Broader Health Effects Of Persistent Pain and How to Avoid Them

In 2013, I hurt my back lifting weights. It took years to heal, and it deeply affected my health and quality of life. You can read more about that HERE. But there was another, perhaps even more significant, side effect of my injury. It’s a topic not often discussed in the world of pain and rehab, yet its long-term impact on health can be severe. This blog will explore these hidden risks and, more importantly, how to address them.

The Hidden Health Risks of Injury and Chronic Pain

Chronic pain and injury often lead people to seek medical care. They also contribute to chronic health conditions like cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cancer, and psychological disorders. These issues can persist for years after the initial pain or injury. This aspect of rehab often goes unnoticed. While managing pain is crucial, the slow decline in overall health begins the moment you’re injured.

Behavioral Changes from Chronic Injury and Pain

The main reason chronic pain leads to other health problems is the lifestyle changes it forces upon us. With chronic pain, we tend to move less, sit more, and may turn to alcohol, smoking, or drugs. Sleep quality drops, stress levels rise, and work capacity declines.

Over time, these changes pave the way to deteriorated health.

What Can We Do About It?

Reflecting on my experience with chronic pain, I wish someone had pointed out these effects and encouraged me to stay active in whatever way possible. I now champion early prevention in rehab. Keeping patients moving is crucial. If running isn’t possible, then walk. If walking is too much, ride a bike. If cycling is out, swim. If strength exercises for the lower back are too painful, focus on the upper back, legs, and arms. If one limb is out of commission, train the others.

We need to focus on what we can control. From day one, we can improve other areas of health. Establish better sleep routines. Cut down on alcohol. Spend quality time with loved ones. Learn to meditate and work on breathing exercises.

These steps are essential to maintaining and improving health during rehab.

Rehab isn’t just about treating pain or injury; it’s a journey to empower yourself, prevent the development of lifestyle diseases and ultimately enhance your health and longevity.

If you are dealing with persistent pain and want to take action to turn your health around, check out our Back 2 Your Best Program HERE.