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Depression & Chronic Back Pain

People who suffer pain on a day-to-day basis often also encounter depression. Chronic pain can cause anxiety, as well as other emotional problems. Those who deal with chronic back pain as well as depression have an even bigger burden to deal with. They will usually need pain management as well as psychotherapy to deal with the depression.

  1. What is Chronic Pain?

    • Chronic pain is pain that lasts for long periods of time. Chronic pain can be caused from a surgery that did not heal correctly, a long-term disease or an injury. Chemical changes in your body increase your sensitivity to pain and this can cause you to feel pain in other areas of your body. The pain can worsen over time, which can create problems psychologically. Chronic pain can also cause lack of sleep, which can add to the depression.

    Psychogenic Pain

    • Chronic back pain is typical of what is known as psychogenic pain. Psychogenic pain is physical pain that is coupled with a psychological problem, such as depression. Pain associated with mental disturbances such as depression can cause an increase in the pain level or prolong the pain. Chronic back pain coupled with depression can cause irritability and an increase in mood swings.

    Treating Chronic Back Pain and Depression

    • Treatments for chronic back pain and depression may start with pain management. Depending on the type of injury or medical condition that cause the back pain, the treatment may vary. There may be physical therapy involved to keep you mobile. Certain back exercises may be warranted to help with stiffness or lack of movement. Pain medications and anti-inflammatories are also treatments for chronic back pain. Many times, sleep aids may be necessary. For many, getting the pain under control, or manageable, is the first step.

    More Treatments for Chronic Back Pain and Depression

    • Your doctor may feel you would benefit from counseling to deal with your chronic pain as well as your depression. You may need to be on anti-depressants. There are also other forms of treatment, such as biofeedback, hypnotherapy and acupuncture. The more proactive you are in dealing with the two medical conditions, the better the chances of finding a way to control both of them.

    Considerations

    • For people who live with constant pain and the depression that often accompanies it, life can be more of a chore than an enjoyment. There are support groups for people who deal with chronic pain and depression. Many times just being around other people who are going through similar situations can be therapeutic. Knowing that you are not alone can ease fears and worries. Before trying to treat these two very serious medical conditions on your own, it is always best to talk to your doctor and get his feedback about your ideas. Working together with your physician can be much more beneficial than trying to go it alone.

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