Treatment of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is one of the most important public health issues we face in this country, with direct and indirect consequences that trickle down to permeate society.  At least 10% of the general population suffers with chronic pain at a level that significantly worsens their quality of life. The US Department of Health and Human Services established a Pain Management Best Practices Task Force to promote better practices for pain management.  The Task Force reported that Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)® was approved and effective for treatment of chronic pain and should be used as a primary treatment rather than only after failure of opioids such as oxycodone ³.

Alternatives to Opioid Therapy

At Connecticut Addiction Medicine, we provide optimal non-interventional management of chronic pain from many origins, especially musculoskeletal. Many patients will seek treatment in the setting of inadequate pain control on chronic opioid therapy. Some patients will have a history of substance abuse, others will not. Treatment with traditional opioids is effective for moderate-severe acute pain, but those medications have been shown to be of decreasing effectiveness beyond three months.  Furthermore, chronic opioid therapy may heighten pain sensitivity and thereby aggravate the pre-existing pain (secondary hyperalgesia).

Suboxone is Effective for Treating Chronic Pain

Studies have consistently shown strong efficacy for Suboxone® treatment of chronic pain.  Representative results include:

• pain score improvement from 7.2 to 3.5 (visual acuity scale where 10 is excruciating pain and 0 is no pain) ¹, and
• pain score improvement from 62 to 16 (100 point visual acuity scale) ².

Observational analysis of chronic pain patients in our own practice has shown similar results, with the majority of patients receiving greater the 50% improvement in pain within one month. For optimal results Suboxone® is commonly used in conjunction with ancillary medications from other classes e.g., SNRIs, tricyclics, anticonvulsants such as gabapentin and muscle relaxants.

Treatment of Chronic Pain

Sometimes, dealing with persistent discomfort feels like carrying a heavy bag that never leaves your shoulder. And, well… that’s what many of our patients at CT Addiction Medicine describe. You wake up stiff. You move through your day, and that ache is just… there. Constant. Frustrating.

Now, what is chronic pain exactly? Think of it as pain that doesn’t really go away—long-lasting, ongoing, sometimes without a clear reason. And honestly… it’s more than just a physical thing. It sneaks into your sleep, your work, your mood. Makes everything harder.

We’ve seen how early intervention changes everything. Catching it early means you can avoid complications, reduce flare-ups, and start treatments that actually make a difference. Waiting too long? Not great. That’s why we focus on a comprehensive approach from day one.

Understanding Chronic Pain 

Chronic pain is one of the most important public health issues we face in this country, with direct and indirect consequences that trickle down to permeate society.  At least 10% of the general population suffers with chronic pain at a level that significantly worsens their quality of life. The US Department of Health and Human Services established a Pain Management Best Practices Task Force to promote better practices for pain management.  The Task Force reported that Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)® was approved and effective for treatment of chronic pain and should be used as a primary treatment rather than only after failure of opioids such as oxycodone ³.

Alternatives to Opioid Therapy

At Connecticut Addiction Medicine, we provide optimal non-interventional management of chronic pain from many origins, especially musculoskeletal. Many patients will seek treatment in the setting of inadequate pain control on chronic opioid therapy. Some patients will have a history of substance abuse, others will not. Treatment with traditional opioids is effective for moderate-severe acute pain, but those medications have been shown to be of decreasing effectiveness beyond three months.  Furthermore, chronic opioid therapy may heighten pain sensitivity and thereby aggravate the pre-existing pain (secondary hyperalgesia).

Suboxone is Effective for Treating Chronic Pain

Studies have consistently shown strong efficacy for Suboxone® treatment of chronic pain.  Representative results include:

pain score improvement from 7.2 to 3.5 (visual acuity scale where 10 is excruciating pain and 0 is no pain) ¹, and

pain score improvement from 62 to 16 (100 point visual acuity scale) ².

Observational analysis of chronic pain patients in our own practice has shown similar results, with the majority of patients receiving greater the 50% improvement in pain within one month. For optimal results Suboxone® is commonly used in conjunction with ancillary medications from other classes e.g., SNRIs, tricyclics, anticonvulsants such as gabapentin and muscle relaxants.

Suboxone is Safe to Use to Treat Chronic Pain

Regarding safety, Suboxone® has an excellent profile, especially when compared to other opioids.  Specifically, there is no development of tolerance, minimal risk of respiratory depression, less potential for misuse and no risk of overdose.  Additionally, there is less sedation, nausea, cognitive dysfunction, constipation and hypogonadism. New patients undergo Suboxone® induction in the office after being off all opioids for at least 24 hours. Comfort medications are prescribed as needed prior to induction. Pain management dosing is achieved by two weeks. Patients are followed by the prescribing physician initially weekly and eventually monthly. Ancillary medications are considered after observing the patient’s response to full pain management dosing of Suboxone®.

Patients with co-morbid psychiatric illness will be managed by our psychiatry team. Those with co-morbid substance abuse will be provided individual and group therapy; urine toxicology testing will be performed frequently; and participation in 12-step recovery will be facilitated. Occasionally, patients will be referred to hospital-based pain management services for interventional therapies.

Causes and Risk Factors

So why does this type of pain happen? Sometimes, it’s after an injury, a surgery, or a long-term condition like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or nerve issues. Other times… it just lingers, even when the original problem seems gone. Frustrating, right? We get it.

Risk factors matter too. Age, previous injuries, sedentary habits, and mental health can all make things worse. Stress, anxiety, and depression? They don’t cause pain per se—but they sure can amplify it. We always take these into account when building a plan.

Triggers are sneaky. A stressful day, lack of sleep, or even the weather can bring flare-ups. Honestly… patients often don’t realize it until we track their patterns. Recognizing triggers early is one of the best tools we can give someone.

Why Management is Important

Managing persistent pain isn’t just about taking a pill. It’s about helping people move, sleep, and live better. And sometimes… small changes make a huge difference. At CT Addiction Medicine, we combine medications, physical therapy, nutrition advice, and telehealth check-ins.

Non-opioid treatments get priority whenever possible. Safer, effective, and often enough to get people moving again. And yes, sometimes opioids are needed—but carefully, monitored, and always as part of a bigger plan.

It’s not perfect. Flare-ups happen. Some days are harder than others. But slowly, steadily, life improves. And that’s what chronic pain treatment is really about—helping people live better, day by day.

Best Treatments and Therapies

Finding the right therapy for persistent pain can feel overwhelming. You might try one thing, it works a little… then it stops. That’s normal. At CT Addiction Medicine, we usually combine several approaches—medications, exercises, and sometimes behavioral therapy. It’s rarely one-size-fits-all.

Non-opioid treatments are often first. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, prescription nerve medications, or certain antidepressants can help. And yeah… sometimes opioids are considered, but we handle those carefully, monitor constantly, and make sure patients understand the plan.

Therapies like guided exercises, stretches, and mindfulness techniques can be game-changers. We teach patients routines they can do at home, little things that make movement easier, stiffness less annoying. Honestly… seeing someone regain mobility is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.

Non-Opioid Options and Opioid Alternatives

Many patients don’t realize how effective non-opioid alternatives can be. For example:

• Topical treatments for localized aches
• Nerve blocks or joint injections for more severe discomfort
• Practice therapies like mindfulness to manage flares
• Physical therapy routines to improve strength and mobility

And yes… opioids may be used, but cautiously. We don’t just hand them out. They’re part of a bigger, multi-step plan. And really, combining therapies is what makes daily life manageable.

Physical Therapy, Nutrition, and Telemedicine

Exercise is a cornerstone of chronic pain management. Mild exercises, body stretching, and strengthening in muscles can help reduce rigidity in your muscles and improve movements. We make sure patients know what they’re doing, so they don’t make things worse.

Nutrition matters too. Anti-inflammatory foods, good hydration, and a healthy weight can make flare-ups less frequent. We combine the dietary guidance in the treatment plan. Though these are some small steps but they matter.

Telemedicine makes a big difference, especially for those who can’t visit the clinic often. Virtual visits let us monitor symptoms, adjust therapies, and answer questions. It keeps care consistent and accessible.

How We Manage Persistent Pain at CT Addiction Medicine

We make sure to take holistic approach at CT Addiction Medicine.

At CT Addiction Medicine, we take a holistic approach. It is not just about treating the symptomI but to help patients regain their confidence and normal body functions. Every plan is custom made, combining medications, therapies, lifestyle advice, and telehealth support.

Progress isn’t always linear. Some days are easier, some harder. Huge difference can be noticed by identifying triggers, tracking the patterns, and adjusting treatment plan. Patients learn to manage flare-ups, understand their bodies, and gradually regain independence.

Honestly… helping people take control of their lives again is what drives us every day. That’s what chronic pain treatment is really about.

What Causes Long-Lasting Pain in Adults

So, what actually leads to long-lasting discomfort? Honestly… it can come from a bunch of different sources. It is commonly caused by post surgical pains, injuries, swelling in joints, and fibromyalgia. Nerve-related issues, like neuropathy, can also make pain stick around longer than expected.

Sometimes, it’s just one of those things that lingers. You feel better for a bit, then… bam. It comes back. And we see that a lot at CT Addiction Medicine. It can be frustrating, confusing, and even discouraging.

The good news? Understanding the root causes helps. When we know what’s driving the discomfort, we can plan treatments that actually work. Waiting too long makes things harder, which is why early intervention is so important.

Risk Factors and Triggers

Certain things make people more prone to persistent pain. Age, prior injuries, surgeries, or even lifestyle habits like long periods of sitting or poor posture can contribute. Mental health also plays a role—stress, anxiety, and depression often make flare-ups worse.

Triggers are tricky. They’re sometimes tiny—like a bad night’s sleep, stress at work, or even weather changes. Patients are often surprised when they notice patterns. At CT Addiction Medicine, we help identify these triggers, so patients can anticipate flare-ups and adjust accordingly.

Honestly… just being able to predict triggers can change everything. It gives patients some control, which makes daily life feel less overwhelming. And that’s a huge part of successful chronic pain management.

Chronic Back Pain and Neuropathic Pain Treatment

In adults, one of the most common persistent pain that have been noticed is the back pain. It can be caused by degeneration in joints, strains in muscles, and herniated discs.

We design a treatment plan including some therapies and medicines to reduce the symptoms and improve body movements.

Neuropathic pain—caused by nerve damage—is another challenge. We use specific medications, non-opioid alternatives, and exercises designed to improve nerve function and reduce flare-ups. And really… progress comes in small steps. Patience and consistency are key.

Early intervention matters a lot. Quick treatment of pain and early intervention reduces further flares and strain in emotions leading to long-term positive outcomes. That’s why we always encourage patients to reach out at the first signs of persistent discomfort.

Therapies Near Me and Opioid Alternatives

Finding effective therapy nearby can be overwhelming. Patients often search for “chronic pain therapy near me” and get confused by all the options. At CT Addiction Medicine, we guide each person through what actually works. Sometimes it’s physical therapy. Sometimes it’s guided exercises or behavioral therapy. Sometimes… a mix of everything.

Non-opioid alternatives can be surprisingly effective. Topical treatments, nerve blocks, mindfulness, relaxation practices, and low-impact exercise routines often reduce discomfort without needing strong medications. And yes, opioids may be considered for severe pain—but only under strict monitoring and as part of a larger, multi-step plan.

The point is… it’s about finding what works for you. Some days will be easier, some harder. But gradually, with consistent treatment, mobility improves, flare-ups become less frequent, and quality of life increases.

Physical Therapy, Nutrition, and Telemedicine

Exercise is key. Guided stretches, gentle strengthening routines, and mobility exercises reduce stiffness and restore function. We make sure patients understand how to do these safely at home.

Nutrition plays an important role. Including foods that can reduce inflammation in your diet with proper hydration, and maintaining a healthy weight can improve your healing process and reduces the triggers.

We make sure to add this guideline in treatment plan at CT Addiction Medicine. A noticeable difference can be seen with these small changes.

Telemedicine is another tool we rely on. Some patients can’t always come into the clinic, and virtual visits allow us to monitor symptoms, adjust therapies, and give guidance. It keeps care consistent—and, honestly, it’s convenient for everyone.

How CT Addiction Medicine Helps Patients

At CT Addiction Medicine, we treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Every plan is customized according to patient needs by integrating medicines with therapies and changes in lifestyle.

Progress isn’t always smooth. Some days are harder. Some flares might be surprising. Real difference can be noticed by tracking patterns, adjusting treatment strategies, and identifying triggers. These patterns help patients to learn the management of flare-ups, improvement in mobility, and regaining daily life confidence.

And really… that’s what chronic pain treatment is about: helping people take back control, step by step.

Benefits of Managing Persistent Pain

• Targeted Relief: Therapies are integrated for enhanced outcomes
• Safer Use Of Medication: Preferring options without opioid
• Improved Movement: Restoring movement using physical therapy
• Mental Health Support – Reduces stress and emotional burden
• Personalized Plans – Every patient gets an individualized approach
• Convenience – Telemedicine keeps care consistent
• Sustainable Results – Focused on long-term quality of life

Final Words

It is not easy to survive with consistent pain. Sometimes it feel heavy and the progress feels slow. Life can be improved with an individualized plan and early intervention. We take the approach at CT Addiction Medicine where we integrate medications with certain therapies, virtual support, and changes in lifestyle to help regain control in the patients.

Honestly… it’s the small improvements that matter most. A better night’s sleep. A walk without stopping. Less reliance on medications. These changes add up. Chronic discomfort doesn’t have to define you. With guidance, patience, and support, you can reclaim your daily life.

Suboxone is Safe to Use to Treat Chronic Pain

Regarding safety, Suboxone® has an excellent profile, especially when compared to other opioids.  Specifically, there is no development of tolerance, minimal risk of respiratory depression, less potential for misuse and no risk of overdose.  Additionally, there is less sedation, nausea, cognitive dysfunction, constipation and hypogonadism. New patients undergo Suboxone® induction in the office after being off all opioids for at least 24 hours. Comfort medications are prescribed as needed prior to induction. Pain management dosing is achieved by two weeks. Patients are followed by the prescribing physician initially weekly and eventually monthly. Ancillary medications are considered after observing the patient’s response to full pain management dosing of Suboxone®.

Patients with co-morbid psychiatric illness will be managed by our psychiatry team. Those with co-morbid substance abuse will be provided individual and group therapy; urine toxicology testing will be performed frequently; and participation in 12-step recovery will be facilitated. Occasionally, patients will be referred to hospital-based pain management services for interventional therapies.

1. Daitch D. et al. Conversion from High-Dose Full-Opioid Agonists to Sublingual Buprenorphine Reduces Pain Scores and Improves Quality of Life. Pain Medicine. 2014. 2087-2094.

2. Kanna I. Buprenorphine — An Attractive Opioid With Underutilized Potential In Treatment of Chronic Pain.

Pain Research. 2015. 859-870.

3. Gudin J. A Narrative Pharmacological Review of Buprenorphine: A Unique Opioid for Treatment of Chronic Pain. Pain Ther. January 2020.

4. Fishman M and Kim P. Buprenorphine for Chronic Pain: A Systemic Review. Current Pain and Headache Reports. 2018. 22-83.

FAQs

1. What is chronic pain?

Pain that lasts longer than expected, often more than three months, and may come from injury, nerve damage, or chronic conditions.

2. What causes chronic pain in adults?

Common causes include injuries, surgeries, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic conditions. Lifestyle factors and stress can worsen it.

3. What are the best treatments?

Combination therapies work best: medications, physical therapy, mindfulness practices, dietary adjustments, and telehealth monitoring.

4. Which alternatives can be used to manage this pain?

It includes some therapies, healthy daily life routines, and medicines that blocks the nerve generating pain.

5. How does nutrition affect pain management?

Foods that can reduce swelling, healthy weight, and proper hydration reduces the chance of flares and improves outcomes.

6. Why is early intervention important?

Treating pain early prevents worsening, reduces emotional strain, and improves long-term outcomes.

7. Can therapy be done remotely?

Absolutely. Virtual assistance helps in patient consultations, treatment planning, and further guidelines at the comfort of their home.

Schedule an initial evaluation

An appointment for chronic pain treatment can be scheduled by calling the patient referral line.

860-492-6400

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