FEATURE
Easing Chronic Pain by Lowering Inflammation Medical treatment and lifestyle changes can decrease long-lasting pain. WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK
Following simple guidelines in the areas of sleep, diet and exercise can help decrease inflammation, lower stress and bring relief for those suffering from chronic pain.
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nflammation is part of the body’s natural defense system. It’s necessary for fighting infection and healing injury. However, too much inflammation that lasts for too long can lead to chronic pain and other health issues. It’s important to see your primary care physician (PCP) for any
6 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate
long-lasting pain. Your doctor will examine where the pain occurs; discuss its intensity, duration and frequency; and talk about treatment. MRIs along with blood, urine and balance/reflex tests can be used to plan treatment. Chronic pain is diagnosed when the pain lasts for more than three months. It can feel like tightness,
burning or even weakness and can originate from any part of the body. Ongoing and untreated pain affects daily activities, work, exercise and mood. It can cause depression, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. Often chronic pain is caused by a long-lasting illness such as arthritis or cancer, or a severe injury. Sometimes the cause is
