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Chronic pain
Chronic pain impacts on your physical and mental wellbeing. Our experts explain the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options available.
What is chronic pain?
Chronic pain is when pain lasts for a significant length of time, beyond three months. There can be many reasons for the pain, including nerve damage or pain following an accident or operation. It can also be a result of a condition such as arthritis or multiple sclerosis.
Need to know
Chronic (ongoing) pain can be the result of:
Everyone feels pain differently, so it can be difficult to describe the symptoms of chronic pain. It is a complex condition that can have a serious impact on your physical and mental well being.
When we have had an injury or been through an operation we expect to be in pain for some time, but when the pain persists it can cause frustration and lead to stress and even depression.
- pain following an injury or operation
- a condition such as diabetes, arthritis, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome or multiple sclerosis
- back injuries
- damage to the nerves
- reduced blood or oxygen supply
Everyone feels pain differently, so it can be difficult to describe the symptoms of chronic pain. It is a complex condition that can have a serious impact on your physical and mental well being.
When we have had an injury or been through an operation we expect to be in pain for some time, but when the pain persists it can cause frustration and lead to stress and even depression.
There is no set test to diagnose chronic pain, so your consultant will be keen to build up a picture of your medical history to discover the underlying cause.
Often, there are lots of ways that you can help yourself. It’s important to stay active, doing low-impact exercise that doesn’t put too much strain on yourself and continuing to work if possible.
Many people also benefit from a bespoke treatment plan. At HCA UK, we offer a holistic and tailored service to patients who suffer from chronic pain, whatever the cause.
Often, there are lots of ways that you can help yourself. It’s important to stay active, doing low-impact exercise that doesn’t put too much strain on yourself and continuing to work if possible.
Many people also benefit from a bespoke treatment plan. At HCA UK, we offer a holistic and tailored service to patients who suffer from chronic pain, whatever the cause.
Our multidisciplinary pain management team is made up of pain management consultants, specialist surgeons, nurses, osteopaths, rheumatologists and therapists who work together to deliver the best treatment.
Depending on the nature and severity of your pain, we provide a wide range of treatment options and pain management techniques — from pain relieving medication, injections and nerve blocks to physio, occupational therapy and psychological support. Our experts are dedicated to improving your comfort, supporting your recovery and helping you get back to the activities you enjoy.
Depending on the nature and severity of your pain, we provide a wide range of treatment options and pain management techniques — from pain relieving medication, injections and nerve blocks to physio, occupational therapy and psychological support. Our experts are dedicated to improving your comfort, supporting your recovery and helping you get back to the activities you enjoy.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.