Chronic Pain

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain persists longer than three months, often continuing even after the original injury or illness has healed. Unlike short-term pain, which warns of harm, chronic pain lingers and affects many parts of daily life, including mood, energy, and relationships.

The Doran team aims to help you manage the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain. They listen to your story, validate your struggles, and work alongside you to build resilience.

What health conditions cause chronic pain?

Chronic pain may develop from many sources. Some people experience it because of ongoing health issues such as osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia. Others have autoimmune disorders like lupus or multiple sclerosis, which cause the body to attack itself, leading to inflammation and pain.

Conditions like postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), chronic fatigue syndrome, and other forms of dysautonomia (conditions that affect involuntary nervous system functions like blood pressure and digestion) can also trigger widespread discomfort, fatigue, and muscle aches.

How does chronic pain affect mental health?

Living with constant pain often feels overwhelming. It can lead to depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and difficulty staying focused. Many people also feel isolated or misunderstood, especially if their condition is invisible to others.

The Doran team recognizes that chronic pain affects not just the body but the whole person, including emotional well-being and sense of identity.

Is chronic pain different for LGBTQIA+ individuals?

While chronic pain itself affects people of all backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals may face additional challenges. For example, stress from discrimination, lack of understanding in healthcare, or limited family support can make coping with chronic pain even harder.

Doran creates an affirming environment where you don’t have to explain or defend your identity.

What treatments or strategies help with chronic pain?

There’s no single solution to chronic pain, but a mix of approaches can make a difference. Mental health support, such as therapy focused on coping skills and emotional healing, plays a significant role. The Doran team may also help you explore the following:

• Lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• Mindfulness techniques
• Learning to pace activities
• Communicating your needs to others

Many people benefit from a team approach to chronic pain, combining mental health care with medical specialists who prescribe medication and offer interventional pain management procedures.

Call Doran to schedule a chronic pain evaluation or complete the online booking form today.