Chronic pain is defined as persistent pain that lasts for at least six months. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain conditions. Common chronic pain conditions include nerve pain, CRPS, migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, and phantom limb pain, just to name a few.
Chronic pain often begins as an initial acute injury—but the pain doesn’t go away after the injury is treated. This may be due to permanently damaged nerves that continue to cause painful flare-ups over time.
As if dealing with persistent pain isn’t bad enough, chronic pain sufferers often end up developing depression due to their pain interfering with their daily life. Chronic pain can lead a person to deteriorate physically due to an inability to be physically active, and emotionally, as thoughts of despair and hopelessness tend to push out more positive thoughts. Clinical depression is diagnosed when feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness are persistent for more than two weeks.
Common painkillers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are often used to treat chronic pain…with moderate success, at best. Recently, The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has spoken up to say that these painkillers “can do more harm than good.” NICE explained that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (which include aspirin and ibuprofen) should not be given to those with chronic pain.
So, what does that leave patients in terms of chronic pain treatment options?
Ketamine infusions are uniquely qualified to treat patients suffering from both chronic pain and depression. Ketamine has been around since the 1960s, labeled an essential medication by the World Health Organization due to its analgesic qualities. Ketamine is not a physically addictive substance and offers long-lasting relief with many patients reporting a decrease in symptoms for up to 11 months at a time, after their initial series of infusions. Ketamine interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, as well as on the glutamate system, which enables the drug to effectively treat both physical and emotional conditions. What’s even more enticing is that patients will know whether ketamine will work for them after just 1-2 infusions—no need to take prescription medication for months before knowing whether or not it’s effective. Furthermore, ketamine is effective for 70% of patients.
Ketamine infusions are a lifesaver for those suffering from chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and more. If you or a loved one needs help, contact VIP Ketamine for a free consultation today. Find out if you are a candidate for ketamine infusions and take the first step towards reclaiming your life.
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