Coming from someone who suffers from chronic pain, both from old sports injuries and a brutal divorce, I can attest that my pain is very real. Especially my nerve pain that happens seemingly out of nowhere. However, I finally have somewhat of a handle on it with gabapentin. It was my last resort as, typically, I like to try a natural, homeopathic route first. But it is working so far!
When my pain level is at a constant eight or ten, all day, every day, yes, it most certainly affects me psychologically. So much so that I am unable to get a good night’s rest because I toss and turn all night. Not getting a healthy amount of sleep affects my mood, how I feel about myself as a professional, and how much patience I have as a parent. Depression because I am so tired and anxious because I fear the pain will last FOREVER. So yes, my back pain affects me psychologically.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Psychogenic pain” is an outdated term for pain that doesn’t happen directly because of an injury or illness affecting your body. Instead, this form of pain originates in your brain and happens because of a combination of factors, including mental health, personal history and circumstances, other health conditions and more.
While psychogenic pain may not have a direct physical cause, this pain is still real. People who have this aren’t faking, lying or seeking attention. This pain feels the same — and involves part of the same processes — as pain from an injury or illness,”.
While I have endured chronic pain for some time now, it has been primarily on my mid back, sciatica on my lower left back, and pelvic floor, which affects my back and causes nerve pain in my legs all over.
When my orthopedic was doing discovery testing to figure out where the back pain was originating from, he found that I also have arthritis in my left hip as well as torn meniscus and Baker’s cysts in both knees. I definitely need rehab but possibly knee surgery, too, which is really inconvenient as a full-time single mom of teenage sons. Here are some of the tests they did:
- MRI on lower back
- MRI on both knees
- Ultrasound on both knees
- Ultrasound of pelvic floor
- Xray on the lower back
- Xray on both knees
- Xray of pelvis
And then there is a woman I know who has had multiple back surgeries, and nothing has changed. It’s important to note that she has refused to participate in physical therapy in the fashion she needs. So, is her pain psychological in the way that she is choosing to stay in that state by not doing the necessary rehab? Or is it because of underlying psychological factors such as fear of pain, fear of failure, or a lack of motivation to commit to the rehabilitation process?
It is imperative to approach a case like this with empathy and understanding, as I can contest that chronic pain and the emotional toll it takes is extraordinarily complex and multifaceted. Professional support from my healthcare team, physical therapy, and pain management counseling is so beneficial in addressing any psychological barriers to recovery.
*Note: All content within this article is meant for informational purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological advice or support. Seek immediate and appropriate care from a healthcare professional should you or a trusted loved one deem it necessary.
Can gut issues cause muscle pain?
Oh yes, you bet it can! In fact, microbiome changes in the gut will lead to chronic inflammation, causing chronic pain in muscles and joints. As a direct result, gut health is taking center stage in my health routines. It is clear that if left unchecked, a gut imbalance will wreak havoc on my muscles and joints.
Here are some potential warning signs of an unhealthy gut:
- Autoimmune problems: thyroid issues, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes
- Digestive issues: irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn or bloating
- Sleep issues
- Skin rashes and allergies
- Sugar cravings
- Unexplained fatigue or sluggishness
- Unexplained mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
If you’re experiencing frequent episodes of any of these above symptoms, it could be your body attempting to tell you something isn’t quite right with your gut. Paying attention to our gut health allows one to take proactive steps in restoring the gut to a healthy state as well as strengthen the immune system.
Healthy ways to strengthen your immune system
First off, avoid smoking altogether. It’s a crucial step in safeguarding your health. When it comes to diet, focus on consuming lots of fruits and vegetables, as these are packed with essential nutrients that give your immune system a fighting chance.
Regular exercise is not only great for your body but also tremendously beneficial for maintaining a strong immune function. Also, pay attention to your weight; maintaining a healthy weight can significantly impact your immune health.
If you enjoy the occasional drink, be sure to do so in moderation or quit altogether to avoid compromising your immune defenses. Sleep is another critical factor—ensure you’re getting enough rest each night, as sleep is essential for a well-functioning immune system. To prevent infections, practice good hygiene by washing your hands often and cooking meat thoroughly. Staying current with all recommended vaccines is vital, too; vaccines prepare your immune system to tackle infections effectively.
Additionally, several supplements can help support an immune system and aid in resetting it, such as vitamins C, D, and E, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and ginger. And, of course, always make sure to consult with your doctor before taking any new supplement or altering your diet.
To stay ahead of the pain, here are some treatments that are suggested for pelvic pain:
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- TENS units
- Massage therapy
- Epsom salt baths
- Flexural (cyclobenzaprine)
- Anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medications
- Surgery
How do I know if my pain is psychological?
In conclusion, recognizing if pain is psychological requires understanding its complex interplay with mental health and physical factors. Professional guidance is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective, empathetic treatment for individuals experiencing chronic pain.