Have you ever experienced a quick, sharp pain that seemingly came out of nowhere? It may have been a phenomenon known as acute pain. Acute pain is a broad term that ultimately describes a mild to sharp pain that comes on suddenly and lasts anywhere from a few seconds to up to a couple months. Learn the symptoms, causes and treatments of acute pain below.
Symptoms of Acute Pain
Because acute pain is a broad term, the symptoms associated with acute pain vary. Just some of the most common symptoms that may be associated with acute pain include:
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, sore throat, cough)
- Fatigue
- Numbness
- Muscle spasms
- Insomnia
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Depression
Causes of Acute Pain
Acute pain can have numerous underlying causes, and often times has no identifiable pain generator. The main factor to consider is that acute pain typically resolves quickly, unlike chronic pain.
Examples of acute pain include things like accidentally touching a hot stove, slamming your finger in a door, or labor pains — each of which cause temporary pain that resolves.
What Is the Difference Between Acute and Chronic Pain?
Unlike acute pain, chronic pain persists even after an injury has healed with active pain signals remaining in the nervous system for weeks, months or even years. This can lead to additional physical and emotional effects including sore and tense muscles, limited mobility, depression and anxiety.
Acute Pain Treatment
Because acute pain is a broad term, treatment will ultimately depend on the cause and severity of the acute pain. In any case, the doctor or medical professional will work to find the underlying cause of the pain. Once the underlying cause has been identified, the appropriate treatment will be prescribed. Treatment for acute pain may include the following:
- Acupuncture
- Behavioral therapy
- Biofeedback
- Electrical stimulation
- NSAIDs
- Physical therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Relaxation techniques
- Surgery
Acute Pain Treatment In Pinellas County
Each individual and their pain are unique, as are the appropriate treatments to manage pain. That’s why it’s so important to have a team of experienced medical professionals to turn to. At All Care, our staff is dedicated to delivering quality healthcare to our patients and our community. We offer acute pain services to get back to feeling your best, in addition to other quality medical care and wellness care services. Contact us today to learn more about our services, or schedule your appointment online.