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While we often associate pain with visible injuries or medical conditions, there is another kind of pain that is not always visible but can have a profound impact on our lives. This is known as non-structural pain – pain that does not originate from any specific structural issue but can manifest in various ways. Here in Part 3 of our non-structural pain series, we delve into the hidden costs of non-structural pain, exploring its financial, emotional, and physical toll.
Invoice to Injury
Non-structural pain can exact a significant financial toll on individuals and society as a whole. The quest for relief often leads individuals to seek out various healthcare professionals, treatments, and therapies, all of which can be expensive especially as non-structural pain is often chronic. People with non-structural pain can spend just as much- and often more- than people with structural pain on healthcare costs!
Traditional medical consultations, tests, and medications may not always provide a clear solution for non-structural pain, leading individuals to explore alternative therapies, including chiropractic care, acupuncture, or massage therapy. While these treatments can be effective for some, they can also strain one's finances, particularly if they are not covered by insurance.
Furthermore, non-structural pain can hinder individuals' ability to work or perform their daily tasks, resulting in missed workdays, reduced productivity, and even long-term disability. The financial burden increases further if the pain necessitates modifications to the living environment or the purchase of assistive devices. As a result, individuals with non-structural pain often face additional stress and anxiety due to mounting medical bills and decreased income.
The Psychological and Emotional Cost
The emotional toll of non-structural pain should not be underestimated. Living with chronic pain that has no apparent cause can be frustrating and disheartening. The constant struggle to find relief and the uncertainty of its origins can lead to feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and depression. Individuals may experience a loss of identity and a diminished sense of self-worth as their pain limits their ability to engage in activities they once enjoyed. Relationships with friends and family can also be strained as the pain impacts their ability to participate fully in social gatherings and maintain meaningful connections.
The psychological impact of non-structural pain can create a vicious cycle. As the emotional toll increases, it can exacerbate the physical pain, leading to heightened distress and further emotional turmoil. The mental health aspect of non-structural pain should not be overlooked, and seeking appropriate support, such as therapy or counseling, can be crucial in managing both the pain and its emotional consequences.
All Pain is in Your Head- and Your Body
Non-structural pain may lack an identifiable structural cause, but it is by no means any less debilitating. The constant presence of pain can lead to muscle tension, fatigue, and a compromised immune system. Sleep disturbances are common among those with chronic pain, and the lack of quality rest can perpetuate a cycle of heightened pain sensitivity and decreased pain tolerance.
Moreover, non-structural pain can have a ripple effect on physical fitness and overall well-being. Individuals may shy away from physical activities due to fear of exacerbating the pain, leading to a sedentary lifestyle. This, in turn, can contribute to weight gain, muscle weakness, and a decline in cardiovascular health. The physical toll of non-structural pain is not limited to the immediate discomfort; it can have long-term consequences on one's overall health and vitality.
TLDR:
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Non-structural pain may not have a clear-cut origin, but its impact is far-reaching, affecting individuals financially, emotionally, and physically. The hidden costs associated with this type of pain highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to pain management, one that acknowledges the multi-dimensional nature of the issue. As individuals, healthcare professionals, and society at large, we must work towards raising awareness, fostering empathy, and developing effective strategies to alleviate the true cost of non-structural pain. That is why here at Flowly, we help individuals regain control over their lives and provide them with the support they need to thrive despite their pain.
If you would like more information about what causes non-structural pain, and what to do about it, check out Part 1 and Part 2 of our non-structural pain series.