What is the difference between acute and chronic pain?

Acute pain is typically a direct response to tissue injury and resolves as healing occurs. Chronic pain persists beyond the expected healing period — generally three months or longer — and may involve changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals.

Can chronic pain be managed without surgery?

Many chronic pain conditions respond to non-surgical approaches, including physical therapy, targeted exercises, medications, and interventional procedures such as injections. A PM&R specialist develops a treatment plan based on the specific diagnosis and the patient's functional goals.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring any relevant imaging studies (MRI, X-ray), a list of current medications, and notes about your symptoms including when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily activities.

Chronic Pain Management

Comprehensive evaluation and treatment of chronic pain conditions through a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation approach in Brooklyn, NY.

Common Symptoms

Pain persisting for three months or longer
Pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications
Difficulty performing daily activities due to persistent discomfort
Sleep disruption caused by ongoing pain
Mood changes or fatigue associated with long-term pain

Chronic pain is a complex condition that affects millions of people and can arise from a variety of sources, including musculoskeletal injuries, degenerative conditions, nerve damage, and prior surgeries. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a warning signal for tissue injury, chronic pain may persist long after the original injury has healed and can involve changes in the way the central nervous system processes pain signals.

Evaluation and Diagnosis

A thorough evaluation is the foundation of effective chronic pain management. Dr. Lemberikman conducts a detailed assessment that includes a review of medical history, physical examination, analysis of prior imaging and diagnostic studies, and, when indicated, electrodiagnostic testing to evaluate nerve function. Understanding the full clinical picture allows for a targeted approach rather than a generalized one.

Treatment Approach

Treatment plans are individualized and may include a combination of physical therapy, pharmacological management, interventional procedures such as joint injections or nerve blocks, and lifestyle modifications. The emphasis is on restoring function and improving quality of life rather than relying solely on pain reduction as a metric of success. Patients are active participants in their care, and treatment strategies are adjusted as progress is made.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between acute and chronic pain?: Acute pain is typically a direct response to tissue injury and resolves as healing occurs. Chronic pain persists beyond the expected healing period — generally three months or longer — and may involve changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals.
Can chronic pain be managed without surgery?: Many chronic pain conditions respond to non-surgical approaches, including physical therapy, targeted exercises, medications, and interventional procedures such as injections. A PM&R specialist develops a treatment plan based on the specific diagnosis and the patient's functional goals.
What should I bring to my first appointment?: Bring any relevant imaging studies (MRI, X-ray), a list of current medications, and notes about your symptoms including when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily activities.

Start Your Recovery Today

Dr. Lemberikman is ready to help you get back to the activities you love.

Request Appointment