Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for 12 weeks or longer, often continuing even after the original injury or condition has healed. It can affect any part of the body and may range from mild discomfort to intense, debilitating pain. Chronic pain is not just physical—it can also take a toll on mental health, leading to conditions like depression, anxiety, and emotional fatigue.
Common types of chronic pain include:
Neuropathic pain
Migraines and chronic headaches
Fibromyalgia
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Arthritis and joint pain
Back and neck pain
Symptoms of chronic pain can vary widely, but often include:
Ongoing aching, burning, or throbbing pain
Muscle stiffness or soreness
Reduced mobility and physical functioning
Fatigue and sleep disturbances
Mood changes such as irritability or depression
Increased sensitivity to stimuli (e.g., touch or temperature)
For many, chronic pain becomes a cycle of physical discomfort and emotional distress, making it essential to address both the body and mind in treatment.
Chronic pain may develop from a known injury, illness, or arise without a clear cause. Factors that contribute to chronic pain include:
Nerve damage or conditions affecting the nervous system
Injuries or surgeries that didn’t heal properly
Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
Repetitive stress injuries from work or physical activity
Psychological stress or trauma, which can heighten pain sensitivity
Underlying health issues such as diabetes or infections
Genetic predisposition, lifestyle habits, and lack of access to early intervention can also increase the risk.
At Luma Health & Wellness, we take a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic pain management. Our personalized plans may include:
Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Medication Management
Physical therapy coordination
Mind-body therapies like mindfulness, meditation, and somatic practices
Mental health support for co-occurring anxiety or depression
Lifestyle counseling to help with sleep, nutrition, and movement routines
Our goal is to reduce pain sensitivity, improve daily functioning, and restore quality of life.
Ketamine has emerged as a promising treatment for individuals suffering from treatment-resistant chronic pain. Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine targets the glutamate system, disrupting pain signaling in the brain and reducing central sensitization.
Interrupts faulty pain pathways in the nervous system
Reduces pain hypersensitivity and resets pain perception
Stimulates neural repair and synaptic growth
May also improve mood, making it effective for patients with pain-related depression or anxiety
Ketamine may be especially effective for conditions like:
CRPS
Neuropathic pain
Fibromyalgia
Migraines
Chronic post-surgical pain