5 Types of Pain You Shouldn’t Ignore (Backed by UK Health Data)
Do you often feel pain and ignore it? It might be more than just minor discomfort.
Shockingly, the latest data from the Ipsos revealed that 26% of UK adults have chronic pain. This shows that by ignoring these symptoms, you can face more health issues.
Sometimes, the small aches we ignore can be our body’s way of telling us something is wrong. A constant backache, sharp neck pain, or ongoing discomfort may mean serious issues with your muscles and bones.
This article will examine five common types of pain that you should be aware of, along with what they may indicate. Let’s get started!
Key Types of Pain That Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
Here are the five key types of pain that shouldn’t be overlooked:
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Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem for adults. People mostly ignore back pain, mainly if it is mild, but ongoing or regular pain could indicate serious issues, like the following:
- Muscle strain
- Herniated discs, or
- Spinal misalignment
If your back pain lasts for weeks, majorly affects your daily life, or worsens over time, you should consult a doctor. According to NHS data, back pain is one of the top reasons people visit their GP in the UK.
When to Seek Help: If the pain exists for more than a few weeks or causes numbness or tingling in your legs, it is essential to seek medical attention.
Persistent back or neck pain is one of the most common reasons people in the UK visit a specialist – with over 80% of adults experiencing it at some point in their lives. If symptoms linger beyond a few weeks or disrupt your daily routine, it’s worth consulting a professional. Neuromuscularclinic.co.uk offers targeted treatments that go beyond quick fixes, helping identify and treat the root causes of recurring pain.
If you want to know how chronic pain is really affecting the UK population, this article might interest you: Number of people with chronic pain in England to rise by 1.9m by 2040. It highlights the growing impact of chronic pain and how crucial early treatment is to avoid long-term issues.
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Neck Pain
Neck pain can result from various causes, including poor posture, muscle strain, stress, or sleeping in an uneasy position. While occasional stiffness is usually not a concern, ongoing neck pain may signal more serious issues, such as degenerative disc disease or cervical arthritis.
When to Seek Help: If your pain limits your head movement or if you also experience headaches or tingling in your arms or hands, it is important to consult a physician.
Neck pain can be severe, especially if left untreated. If it affects your daily activities or causes persistent discomfort, consult a professional to assess the problem and advise a suitable treatment plan.
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Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is mostly caused by rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, or even tendonitis. It is a common issue that can lead to repetitive movements or injuries.
In the UK, shoulder pain is a leading cause of work-related injuries, particularly among individuals who frequently lift objects overhead or perform repetitive tasks. The pain can range from mild to severe and may restrict your arm movement or affect your everyday activities.
When to Seek Help: If the pain makes it difficult for you to lift, carry, or move your arm, or if it follows an injury, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.
Treatment usually includes physiotherapy, rest, and sometimes injections or surgery. Do not let shoulder pain interfere with your life – seek professional help quickly to avoid long-term damage.
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Hip Pain
Hip discomfort is common in older adults, but it can also affect younger individuals. It may indicate problems such as osteoarthritis, tendonitis, or even bursitis. The pain can be mild or severe and usually occurs in the front or side of the hip, sometimes reaching down the thigh.
When to Seek Help: If the pain continues or makes it hard to walk or move, you should see a doctor.
If left untreated, hip pain can worsen and lead to more significant issues, such as joint damage, which can impact your mobility.
Callout: For ongoing hip pain, consult a specialist who can easily identify the cause and recommend the most effective treatment options.
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Knee Pain
Knee pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages. In the UK, it is especially common among older adults, with knee osteoarthritis being the leading cause of ongoing knee pain. The knee is a complicated joint that can wear down over time, leading to inflammation, damage, or injury.
Interestingly, about 5.4 million UK people have knee osteoarthritis. This highlights that the condition is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders in the country.
Knee pain can result from overexertion, wearing improper footwear, or sustaining an injury while participating in sports. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp pain, don’t ignore knee problems.
When to Seek Help: If your pain lasts for a few days or if you notice swelling, redness, or difficulty bending your knee, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider.
Treating knee pain fast is crucial to prevent long-term mobility problems. Physiotherapy and, in some cases, surgery can help address the problem and provide relief.
Conclusion
Pain is a common part of life, but if it happens frequently or persists for a long period, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. If you feel any pain, pay attention to it. Don’t ignore it – take steps to address the issue before it gets worse. By seeking help early, you can prevent more significant problems and enhance your overall quality of life.
Listen to your body, consult a professional when necessary, and remember that your health is a top priority.