Causes of Pain and Chronic Pain

Introduction: Why Chronic Pain Needs a New Approach

Chronic pain is more than a lingering symptom—it’s a sign that your body is struggling with unresolved inflammation, dysfunction, or trauma. At Patients Medical in New York City, we go beyond painkillers to identify the root causes of your chronic pain. Our approach combines conventional diagnostics with functional medicine to help you heal from the inside out.

We don’t just manage symptoms—we aim to resolve what’s causing them.

What Is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists longer than 12 weeks, often long after an injury or illness has healed. It can be sharp, dull, localized, or widespread—and may interfere with your mood, mobility, and quality of life.

Common Chronic Pain Syndromes We See:

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Neuropathy and nerve pain
  • Myofascial pain syndrome
  • Chronic fatigue with body aches
  • Migraines and tension headaches
  • Chronic joint or spine pain
  • Post-surgical pain
  • Autoimmune-related pain (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)

The Root Causes of Chronic Pain: Why Does It Happen?

Functional medicine aims to understand why you’re in pain, not just where.

Common Underlying Causes of Pain Include:

Functional Diagnostic Tools We Use

We combine physical exams with advanced lab testing to pinpoint pain triggers:

Laboratory Panels

  • Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR, cytokines)
  • Comprehensive stool testing (leaky gut, dysbiosis, candida)
  • Heavy metal and mold toxin testing
  • Adrenal and cortisol rhythm testing
  • Full thyroid panel (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3)
  • Mitochondrial function panels
  • Autoimmune antibody screening
  • Nutrient testing (magnesium, D, omega-3, CoQ10)
  • Genetic testing (MTHFR and detox pathways)

Clinical Assessments

  • Pain mapping and functional movement screening
  • Gait and postural evaluations
  • Neurological testing (reflexes, nerve integrity)
  • Sleep and stress evaluations
  • Emotional health screenings when applicable

Real Patient Case: Robert’s Pain Uncovered

Robert, 49, suffered from full-body aches, poor sleep, and brain fog for nearly 5 years. Diagnosed with fibromyalgia, he was prescribed antidepressants and pain relievers with minimal relief. At Patients Medical, we performed a full root-cause evaluation and found:

  • Gut permeability with bacterial overgrowth
  • Cortisol levels flatlined (stage 3 adrenal fatigue)
  • Deficiencies in magnesium, D3, and CoQ10
  • Past Epstein-Barr virus reactivation

We initiated a plan with gut healing, adrenal support, IV nutrients, and anti-inflammatory nutrition. Within 90 days, Robert’s daily pain reduced by 65%—and his sleep and mental clarity dramatically improved.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

In many cases, yes. Once the root cause is identified—whether it’s gut inflammation, hormonal imbalance, or toxins—we can begin to reverse the process.

That’s common. We use advanced, functional tests that most conventional providers don’t run.

Absolutely. Trauma can affect cortisol, the nervous system, and pain perception.

Yes. These are core conditions we treat through personalized, root-cause plans.

We are out-of-network, but we provide superbills for reimbursement. Some labs may be partially covered.

No referral is needed. You can book directly with us for consultation and testing.

 Many patients begin to feel improvement within 4–12 weeks, depending on their plan.

Absolutely. We often collaborate with PCPs and specialists for a full-circle approach.

Yes. Deficiencies in magnesium, D, omega-3s, and B vitamins can all contribute to muscle, joint, or nerve pain.

Yes. We personalize protocols based on your medications, and many patients safely taper under supervision.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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