Chronic & Acute Pain Treatment | Effective Pain Relief

Dr. Jerry Sobel recognizes that acute pain and chronic pain syndromes are fundamentally different and require distinct treatment approaches.

Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain

Acute pain is typically the result of a specific tissue injury, such as a muscle strain or ligament sprain. Treatment focuses on modifying activity levels, minimizing bed rest, and using ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to promote healing. Most acute injuries resolve within a few months.

However, when pain persists beyond three months, it transitions into chronic pain syndrome. The longer lower back pain, neck pain, or joint pain lasts, the more complex treatment becomes. Chronic pain management requires addressing not only the initial injury but also the secondary factors that develop over time.

Factors That Influence Chronic Pain Syndromes

Chronic pain is not just a physical condition—it is influenced by psychological, social, and emotional factors. Many individuals with chronic sciatica, herniated disc pain, or spinal arthritis experience:

✅ Loss of physical conditioning due to reduced activity and fear of movement
✅ Increased anxiety and depression caused by prolonged pain and limited recovery
✅ Financial stress from missed work and costly treatments
✅ Frustration after seeing multiple healthcare providers without lasting relief

Over time, the pain can become self-sustaining, making recovery even more challenging.

Chronic Pain Management: Two Key Approaches

There are two primary models of chronic pain treatment:

1. The Biomedical Model of Pain Management

The traditional approach to pain treatment focuses on identifying the pain generator—the specific body part causing discomfort. Treatments include:

• Pain relief medications (NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or opioids for severe cases)

• Spinal injections (epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections)

• Implantable pain stimulators

• Surgical procedures (when necessary)

While this model works well for acute injuries and clear structural issues, it can be less effective for chronic pain syndromes, where multiple factors contribute to discomfort.

2. The Biopsychosocial Model of Pain Management

Dr. Jerry Sobel emphasizes a more comprehensive approach—the biopsychosocial model, which considers:

• Biological factors – The physical injury and its healing process

• Psychological factors – Anxiety, depression, and fear avoidance behavior

• Social factors – The impact of chronic pain on work, relationships, and daily life

This multidimensional pain management strategy helps individuals regain function by addressing all aspects of chronic pain rather than just treating symptoms.

Fear Avoidance Behavior and Its Role in Chronic Pain

One of the biggest barriers to recovery in chronic lower back pain, neck pain, and sciatica is fear avoidance behavior.

When pain occurs, individuals react in two ways:

✅ Group 1: Active Recovery

• Continues moving despite discomfort

• Stays engaged in daily activities

• Maintains physical conditioning, which supports healing

❌ Group 2: Fear Avoidance Cycle

• Fears movement, believing it will cause further injury

• Avoids activity, leading to muscle weakness and deconditioning

• Experiences increased pain due to inactivity

• Develops chronic anxiety and depression, worsening pain perception

This cycle can prolong disability and intensify pain beyond the initial injury.

Breaking the Fear Avoidance Cycle

For many individuals with chronic back pain and sciatica, education is key to overcoming fear-based pain avoidance.

✅ Pain is "safe" – Experiencing discomfort does not necessarily mean further damage is occurring.
✅ Movement is medicine – Staying active supports healing and pain relief.
✅ Customized pain management plans – Every patient requires individualized treatment based on their specific needs.

Dr. Sobel has successfully treated countless patients with chronic lower back pain by addressing both physical and psychological barriers to recovery.

Effective Chronic Pain Treatment: A Holistic Approach

For long-term pain relief, a personalized treatment plan should include:

✔️ Non-Surgical Pain Relief Treatments

• Physical therapy for strength and mobility

• Massage therapy to reduce muscle tension

• Acupuncture for chronic back pain

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression

• Chiropractic care and spinal adjustments

✔️ Advanced Pain Management Options

• Epidural steroid injections for sciatica and nerve pain

• Radiofrequency ablation for joint pain relief

• Minimally invasive spine treatments for chronic conditions

By integrating biomedical treatments with biopsychosocial strategies, patients experience greater pain relief and improved quality of life.

Find the Best Chronic Pain Management Plan for You

If you're struggling with chronic back pain, sciatica, or joint pain, a comprehensive approach can help you regain function and improve your daily life.

Contact Dr. Jerry Sobel today to explore personalized pain relief solutions that address both physical and psychological factors for long-term success.