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.
