Understanding the Spectrum of Pain Disorders
One of the many benefits offered by Princeton Health Care Center is our focus on managing our resident’s pain. Here, our experienced staff works with residents to support and improve a patient’s condition while maintaining a high level of psychological and physical well-being. The spectrum of pain disorders is broad, but so is the amount and quality of support we provide.
Examples of Conditions We Treat
Arthritis
Arthritis comes in many different forms, some of which are widespread and others that affect individual joints. To address this varied condition, we explore several different treatment options to maintain and improve the quality of life of our residents.
Back Pain
It’s estimated that 80 percent of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Most of this pain is classified as acute, and typically subsides after a couple of months. However, chronic pain could be the result of an infection, tumor, or systemic disease. Once the source of the pain is identified, our Medical Director, nurses, and therapy department will work to treat it in a way that will minimize the resident’s pain over time.
Shingles
Shingles is a common ailment that results from the resurgence of the chicken-pox virus in a single nerve root. Symptomized by itchiness and pain, shingles eventually takes the form of a rash – at which point the pain usually subsides. However, people over the age of 55 are at greater risk of permanent pain. Minimizing the chances of permanency necessitate immediate treatment within the first two months of the shingles’ appearance. Nerve blocks in particular have proven most effective in preventing permanent pain.
Cervicogenic Headache
Unlike “normal” headaches, which stem from a disruption of the blood vessels or muscle tension, a cervicogenic headache is caused by cervical facet arthritis – a condition exacerbated by poor posture or neck/spinal-related injuries like whiplash. People who experience these headaches feel pain in their neck and arms and find it hard to rotate their neck. Physical therapy and osteopathic manipulation are two therapies we often pursue in these cases, along with the dispensation of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Herniated Disc
PHCC understands the numerous contributors to a herniated disc: trauma, aging, and poor posture are common causes, along with smoking and obesity, all of which can lead to pinched nerves. These occur when the spinal discs responsible for maintaining an opening for nerve roots are no longer able to do so because of injury or degeneration. There is no quick cure for a herniated disc, and a full recovery can take up to a year. However, during that time our clinical and therapy staff will seek to minimize your pain by improving your body’s alignment. Anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid administration are other options considered during the healing process.
Trust Us To Help You Heal
With Princeton Health Care Center, you’re ensured of skilled, compassionate care with the goal of improving your or your loved one’s quality of life. Contact us today for more information and to schedule a tour!