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Health & Fitness

Oh My Aching Back: Managing Your Chronic Pain

Troubled with chronic back pain? You don't have to suffer! Pain management specialists can ease your pain and get you back to enjoying life.

An estimated 50 million Americans suffer from some sort of chronic pain condition.  That’s a big number that translates into billions of dollars in missed work time and disability payments.

When someone has chronic pain it affects everyone around them – friends, family members, co-workers – everyone has to step up and provide help and support, and that can be very difficult and can put a lot of strain on families and other relationships.

What is important to remember, however, is that there are many treatments available for chronic pain, and if you have pain that prevents you from functioning around the home, going to work, or doing the things in life you enjoy, then it may be time to speak with your primary care doctor about referring you to a pain management specialist.

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Pain management specialists will often use a variety of different techniques to help you control your pain and regain functioning.  These therapies may include oral medications or injections of steroids around painful areas or inflamed nerves in your body.  A pain specialist may also refer you to a physical therapist or a psychologist to help deal with the physical and mental effects of long term pain. 

So if you have chronic pain that is preventing you from living fully, we encourage you to take action and talk to your doctor about the options available for fighting back against pain and reclaiming your life.

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Living Pain Free

Suffering from chronic back pain? It’s one on the most common types of chronic back pain, and it can come from a variety of causes. Don’t let it keep you from enjoying everyday life! Join James McGowan, MD, director of Pain Management at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, at a free seminar on managing chronic back pain.

Wednesday, March 28 - 6:30 p.m.

MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center

Crawford Conference Center

9000 Franklin Square Drive, Baltimore, MD 21237

Register at medstarfranklin.org/gettingitright or call 443-777-7900.

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