Being able to work, play, and live without pain is a feat that many of us take for granted. Unfortunately, there are at least 100 million Americans who suffer from chronic pain that can limit mobility and often make one feel as though the world is moving along without them. Chronic pain is a serious matter, thankfully there are specialists around the country who are helping thousands of Americans find relief again through a variety of treatments.

Chronic Pain Across the U.S.

A recent poll gives us a more thorough break-down of pain across the entire nation: 31% of all adults experience chronic pain localized in the neck or back region; 26% experience constant pain in the leg or the knee; and another 18% suffer from a condition that causes chronic pain in another region. Hip fractures are a common cause for chronic hip pain; 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling. Orthopedic joint injuries account for many cases of chronic pain in the hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow.

Treatment Options

A number of patients choose to bear with the pain to avoid having painful and complicated surgical procedures. Although surgery is often the most straight forward approach to orthopedic problems, there are several alternatives to surgery that may help to alleviate chronic pain. Physical therapy has seen past success with many patients who suffered from immobility caused by joint pain. Breakthroughs in stem cell research has most recently resulted in regenerative medicine; stem cells are used to repair damaged tissues and cells to restore function — these applications can be used to repair organs, heal muscles, and even mend bones. There are a number of options even within the realm of surgery. Minimally invasive surgery is becoming more widespread as specialists are able to make a small “keyhole” incision less than a few inches long to treat patients. These minimally invasive surgeries provide all of the benefits of traditional surgery while decreasing patient pain and the need for longer recovery times. In fact, many patients are discharged from the hospital within a few days following a once-major minimally invasive surgical treatment. No one knows your pain quite like you do; as your doctor if there are any alternatives to surgery or if minimally invasive surgical options are available to help treat your chronic pain and get you back to living your life on your terms.