If you’re coping with back or neck pain on a regular basis, you’re not alone. According to research, one in every two Americans experience musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, which affects the bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerves. The 2024 State of MSK survey of 10,000 Americans with chronic and acute pain shows that pain is too big a problem to ignore.

Nearly half the survey respondents said that chronic pain prevents them from living life to the fullest (47%), while 27% reported MSK pain has decreased their productivity at work, and 22% agreed it has made them consider leaving their job.

Beyond physical symptoms, chronic pain is also associated with poor mental health. About one-third of survey respondents reported feeling depressed, and nearly half reported anxiety.

The survey found people with chronic pain are more likely to seek over-the-counter or prescription pain medications, despite the fact that 47% of people who do not feel in control of their pain fear side effects or complications from those treatment methods.

Tip 1: Keep moving

When experiencing pain, it’s natural to want to stop moving, hoping that rest will make the pain stop. Unfortunately, staying still can lead to a downward cycle — with pain increasing and mobility decreasing.

Chiropractors (doctors of chiropractic) offer expert hands-on opioid free treatments focused on reducing pain and increasing mobility, allowing patients to move and keep moving without pain. More tips next week!

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com