At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we understand the profound impact pain can have on your life. Pain is not a one-size-fits-all experience; it can vary significantly in intensity, duration, and underlying causes. Recognizing the differences between acute and chronic pain is crucial for finding effective treatment that prevents the risk of opioid addiction.
Understanding Acute and Chronic Pain
Acute pain is sudden, sharp and short-lived. It serves as a warning signal of disease or a threat to the body, often resulting from an injury, surgery or illness. Acute pain usually resolves as the underlying cause heals, generally within a few days to a few weeks. Health professionals often treat it with medication and other interventions aimed at addressing the root cause.
Chronic pain persists for longer periods, often lasting for months or even years. It can result from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, nerve damage or ongoing illnesses. Chronic pain can limit your quality of life by leading to physical limitations, emotional distress and a reduced ability to engage in daily activities. It can also persist despite medical treatment.
The Risk of Opioid Addiction
Many doctors prescribe opioids for pain management. While these medications provide short-term relief, their prolonged use carries significant risks. Even when used responsibly, opioids can lead to addiction because of their effects on brain chemistry. Studies show that people using opioids for more than a few days are more likely to develop a drug dependence.
Your tolerance will build with regular opioid use, requiring higher doses of medication to achieve the same level of pain relief. This escalation increases the chances of overdose and addiction.
Dependence occurs when your body adapts to the presence of opioids, leading to an array of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if you try to stop taking your medication. Physical symptoms can include anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, sweating, chills and nausea. You may also experience intense cravings, depression and anxiety, making it challenging to quit opioids without professional help.
HVRC’s Chronic Pain and Addiction Program
As an accredited treatment facility, we have designed our comprehensive chronic pain and addiction program to help people manage pain without relying on opioids. Our approach starts with medically managed detox to safely address physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
We use targeted therapies for drug-free pain management.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique can reduce pain and improve overall well-being by stimulating specific points on the body.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity strengthens muscles and bones, improves mobility and reduces pain.
- Physical therapy: Customized exercises and movements manage pain and extend your range of motion.
- Massage: Therapeutic massage can alleviate pain, reduce stress and enhance relaxation.
- Meditation and mindfulness breathing: These practices promote relaxation and mental clarity.
Take Control of Your Life Today
Millions of Americans struggle with chronic pain and a co-occurring opioid use disorder. Our chronic pain and addiction treatment program offers a range of alternative therapies to support long-term recovery and improved quality of life.
If you live with chronic pain or opioid addiction, reach out to us today to start your journey toward healing and a healthier future.