Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than about three months, and the pain is real, not imagined. Over time the nervous system can become more sensitive, so pain continues after tissues have healed. Physical therapy uses movement, education and gradual progress as a non-drug approach, and PAR Physical Therapy offers it in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Request an Appointment Call Myrtle Beach Call Murrells Inlet
Why pain that won't go away can outlast the injury, and why long-term pain is real
Pain is an alarm. In persistent pain the alarm gets turned up, and a phenomenon called central sensitization means that ordinary touch or movement can set it off. The tissue may have healed. That does not mean it is in your head. It means the alarm system needs retraining. Our therapists explain this in plain language so you stop fearing every twinge.
Why movement helps more than rest
Rest calms a sore spot for a day and weakens it for a month.
The cycle
Pain leads to guarding, guarding leads to stiffness and weakness, and weakness leads to more pain.
The way out
Graded activity, in small steps, shows your nervous system that movement is safe.
Pacing
We teach activity pacing so a good day does not cost you a bad week.
Chronic pain treatment: non-surgical pain relief without drugs
Many people want pain management without opioids. Therapy is one option to discuss with your doctor.
- Pain neuroscience education, to explain how pain works
- Graded activity and graded exposure to movements you have been avoiding
- Therapeutic exercise and manual therapy
- Dry Needling and deep tissue laser for painful areas, when they fit
- A digital home program with activity pacing
What progress looks like, and working with your doctor
Function comes first and pain second. You may walk farther, sleep better or lift your grandchild before the number on the pain scale moves. We work with your doctor or pain specialist and share what we find.
Pain in one place? Start here
Chronic pain care in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet
Call either clinic or request an appointment. Same-day appointments are possible, and we accept most insurance plans.
We see patients in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Request an Appointment Call Myrtle Beach Call Murrells Inlet