What Is Pain and Benefits of Pain Management

: Treating pain, such as headaches, back ailments and arthritis, is big business in the United States. But if you’re living with chronic pain, you may feel alone in your struggle. The good news is that millions of Americans can relate – and new treatments are being developed all the time. Consider these facts:

• Approximately 45 million Americans suffer from debilitating headaches.
• Nearly 40 million Americans suffer from arthritis pain.
• The vast majority of Americans, as many as 85%, will suffer from back pain at some point.
• Back pain is the most common cause of disability in people under 45.

Unfortunately, pain is a seriously undertreated problem. About 75% of sufferers do not receive adequate treatment for effective pain management.

Untreated or poorly executed pain management plans put people at risk for depression, irritability, fatigue, and an overall diminished quality of life. About 33% of Americans in pain experience sleep loss, which may affect their ability to work, take care of their families, socialize, exercise, and participate in activities they enjoy. Treating pain is an important step in regaining control over quality of life.