Pain and Pain Management

Introduction: Understanding Pain Begins with Understanding Language

Pain affects everyone—but the words we use to describe, diagnose, and treat it can often be confusing. At Patients Medical in New York City, we believe that education empowers healing. Our integrative approach to pain management begins with helping you understand the terminology used across holistic, functional, and conventional medicine.

Whether you’re navigating chronic conditions, new to functional testing, or preparing for an integrative care plan—this glossary will give you the clarity you need to advocate for yourself and participate in your healing journey.

Glossary of Pain & Integrative Pain Management Terms

Acute Pain Pain that comes on suddenly and typically lasts a short time—often a result of injury, surgery, or inflammation. Usually resolves with healing.

Chronic Pain Pain lasting longer than 3 months, often persisting even after the original cause has healed. It may involve nervous system sensitization, inflammation, or unresolved emotional trauma

Allodynia Pain caused by stimuli that don’t normally provoke pain—such as light touch or brushing against the skin. Often seen in neuropathic or fibromyalgia pain.

Analgesic A medication or substance that relieves pain. This includes conventional drugs (like NSAIDs) and natural options like turmeric or white willow bark.

Biofeedback A mind-body technique that teaches individuals to control physiological processes (like muscle tension or heart rate) to manage pain and stress responses.

Central Sensitization A state where the central nervous system becomes hypersensitive, amplifying pain signals and contributing to widespread pain. Common in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) A psychological method that helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns that influence how pain is experienced.

Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) A broad range of therapies—including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and chiropractic care—used alongside or instead of conventional pain treatments.

Endorphins Natural chemicals in the brain that block pain signals and promote feelings of well-being. Often increased through exercise, laughter, and meditation.

Functional Medicine A systems-based approach to healthcare that identifies and treats the root causes of pain, rather than masking symptoms. Focuses on gut health, inflammation, detox, hormones, and mitochondrial function.

Hyperalgesia Increased sensitivity to painful stimuli. Can be caused by inflammation, nerve damage, or prolonged use of certain pain medications (opioid-induced hyperalgesia).

Inflammation The body’s natural immune response to injury or infection. When chronic, it can fuel pain conditions like arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and back pain.

Integrative Medicine A care model that combines the best of conventional, functional, and holistic therapies for personalized pain relief.

Myofascial Pain Muscle pain caused by tight or irritated trigger points in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles). Often feels like knots or tight bands.

Neuropathic Pain Pain caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. Described as burning, shooting, or tingling. Common in diabetes, shingles, and nerve injuries.

Nociceptive Pain Pain caused by tissue damage or inflammation. Often sharp or aching and associated with injury, surgery, or arthritis.

NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Used to reduce inflammation and treat mild-to-moderate pain.

Opioids Prescription pain medications that work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. Often used for severe pain, but carry risk of dependence and tolerance.

Pain Threshold The minimum intensity at which a stimulus is perceived as painful. Varies between individuals and can be affected by mood, stress, and inflammation.

Referred Pain Pain perceived in a location different from its source. Example: arm pain during a heart attack.

Somatic Pain Pain originating from skin, muscles, or joints. Typically well-localized and responsive to physical therapy and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Trigger Point A sensitive area in muscle or connective tissue that causes pain elsewhere in the body when stimulated. Often treated with massage or dry needling.

Visceral Pain Pain from internal organs, often described as deep, pressure-like, or cramping. Seen in conditions like IBS or endometriosis.

Why Pain Language Matters in Integrative Care

In functional and holistic medicine, we don’t just listen to where it hurts—we decode the why behind the pain. Having a shared vocabulary empowers you to:

How We Use These Terms in Your Care Plan

At Patients Medical, we tailor every treatment plan to your unique pain profile. Here’s how we apply these concepts:

Identifying neuropathic vs. nociceptive pain helps guide therapy choice
Understanding inflammation allows for targeted dietary and supplement support
Recognizing central sensitization may lead to mind-body techniques like CBT or acupuncture
Exploring visceral pain may warrant gut testing and functional GI protocols

Real Case Study: Clarifying Pain, Guiding Results

David, 41, came in with widespread pain and fatigue. He had been misdiagnosed with arthritis but described burning, tingling, and pain with light touch. Our assessment identified signs of central sensitization and neuropathic pain.

We recommended:

A gluten-free anti-inflammatory diet
Magnesium and alpha-lipoic acid
Acupuncture for nerve regulation
Mindfulness-based stress reduction

Within 3 months, David’s pain reduced by 60%, his sleep improved, and he was able to resume regular activity.

Testimonials

“I thought I’d be stuck with arthritis pain forever. Now I wake up without stiffness.”

“I lived on ibuprofen for years. This team helped me heal instead of just masking the pain.”

“The IV therapy helped my migraines disappear. I’m beyond grateful.”

“No one ever told me how much my gut health impacted my joint pain. Life-changing care.”

“The integrative approach gave me my life back. I can play with my kids again.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there so many types of pain?

Different tissues and systems cause different pain responses. Understanding the type helps us treat it more effectively.

How do I know what kind of pain I have?

Our integrative evaluation includes a physical exam, lab tests, symptom review, and sometimes imaging or nerve studies.

Can emotional trauma cause physical pain?

Yes—especially in chronic pain. Stress and unresolved trauma can trigger or worsen pain through nervous system dysregulation.

Can diet really affect my pain levels?

Absolutely. Inflammatory foods like sugar, gluten, and dairy can worsen pain. We’ll customize a healing diet.

What types of pain respond best to your therapies?

Back pain, fibromyalgia, nerve pain, arthritis, and tension headaches all respond well to integrative care.

Do you accept insurance?

We’re out-of-network but provide superbills for reimbursement. Some labs and therapies may be partially covered.

How soon will I feel better?

Most patients begin to notice improvements within a few weeks, especially with IV therapy and nutrition changes

Do you work with other specialists?

Yes. We collaborate with orthopedists, neurologists, and physical therapists when needed.

Will I still need surgery?

In many cases, our therapies help patients avoid surgery or delay it significantly.

Is your approach safe for seniors or those with other conditions?

Yes. Our protocols are tailored for each patient’s age, medications, and health status.

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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Pain and Pain Management

Introduction: Understanding Pain Begins with Understanding Language

Glossary of Pain & Integrative Pain Management Terms

Acute Pain Pain that comes on suddenly and typically lasts a short time—often a result of injury, surgery, or inflammation. Usually resolves with healing.

Chronic Pain Pain lasting longer than 3 months, often persisting even after the original cause has healed. It may involve nervous system sensitization, inflammation, or unresolved emotional trauma

Allodynia Pain caused by stimuli that don’t normally provoke pain—such as light touch or brushing against the skin. Often seen in neuropathic or fibromyalgia pain.

Analgesic A medication or substance that relieves pain. This includes conventional drugs (like NSAIDs) and natural options like turmeric or white willow bark.

Biofeedback A mind-body technique that teaches individuals to control physiological processes (like muscle tension or heart rate) to manage pain and stress responses.

Central Sensitization A state where the central nervous system becomes hypersensitive, amplifying pain signals and contributing to widespread pain. Common in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) A psychological method that helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns that influence how pain is experienced.

Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) A broad range of therapies—including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and chiropractic care—used alongside or instead of conventional pain treatments.

Endorphins Natural chemicals in the brain that block pain signals and promote feelings of well-being. Often increased through exercise, laughter, and meditation.

Functional Medicine A systems-based approach to healthcare that identifies and treats the root causes of pain, rather than masking symptoms. Focuses on gut health, inflammation, detox, hormones, and mitochondrial function.

Hyperalgesia Increased sensitivity to painful stimuli. Can be caused by inflammation, nerve damage, or prolonged use of certain pain medications (opioid-induced hyperalgesia).

Inflammation The body’s natural immune response to injury or infection. When chronic, it can fuel pain conditions like arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and back pain.

Integrative Medicine A care model that combines the best of conventional, functional, and holistic therapies for personalized pain relief.

Myofascial Pain Muscle pain caused by tight or irritated trigger points in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles). Often feels like knots or tight bands.

Neuropathic Pain Pain caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. Described as burning, shooting, or tingling. Common in diabetes, shingles, and nerve injuries.

Nociceptive Pain Pain caused by tissue damage or inflammation. Often sharp or aching and associated with injury, surgery, or arthritis.

NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Used to reduce inflammation and treat mild-to-moderate pain.

Opioids Prescription pain medications that work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. Often used for severe pain, but carry risk of dependence and tolerance.

Pain Threshold The minimum intensity at which a stimulus is perceived as painful. Varies between individuals and can be affected by mood, stress, and inflammation.

Referred Pain Pain perceived in a location different from its source. Example: arm pain during a heart attack.

Somatic Pain Pain originating from skin, muscles, or joints. Typically well-localized and responsive to physical therapy and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Trigger Point A sensitive area in muscle or connective tissue that causes pain elsewhere in the body when stimulated. Often treated with massage or dry needling.

Visceral Pain Pain from internal organs, often described as deep, pressure-like, or cramping. Seen in conditions like IBS or endometriosis.

Why Pain Language Matters in Integrative Care

How We Use These Terms in Your Care Plan

Real Case Study: Clarifying Pain, Guiding Results

Testimonials

Explore Our Blog For More Insights

Frequently Asked Questions

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Request your consultation today!

Our medical center in New York City.

Make an Appointment

Important Links

Useful Links

Useful Links

Connect with Us

Pain and Pain Management

Introduction: Understanding Pain Begins with Understanding Language

Glossary of Pain & Integrative Pain Management Terms

Acute Pain Pain that comes on suddenly and typically lasts a short time—often a result of injury, surgery, or inflammation. Usually resolves with healing.

Chronic Pain Pain lasting longer than 3 months, often persisting even after the original cause has healed. It may involve nervous system sensitization, inflammation, or unresolved emotional trauma

Allodynia Pain caused by stimuli that don’t normally provoke pain—such as light touch or brushing against the skin. Often seen in neuropathic or fibromyalgia pain.

Analgesic A medication or substance that relieves pain. This includes conventional drugs (like NSAIDs) and natural options like turmeric or white willow bark.

Biofeedback A mind-body technique that teaches individuals to control physiological processes (like muscle tension or heart rate) to manage pain and stress responses.

Central Sensitization A state where the central nervous system becomes hypersensitive, amplifying pain signals and contributing to widespread pain. Common in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) A psychological method that helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns that influence how pain is experienced.

Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) A broad range of therapies—including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and chiropractic care—used alongside or instead of conventional pain treatments.

Endorphins Natural chemicals in the brain that block pain signals and promote feelings of well-being. Often increased through exercise, laughter, and meditation.

Functional Medicine A systems-based approach to healthcare that identifies and treats the root causes of pain, rather than masking symptoms. Focuses on gut health, inflammation, detox, hormones, and mitochondrial function.

Hyperalgesia Increased sensitivity to painful stimuli. Can be caused by inflammation, nerve damage, or prolonged use of certain pain medications (opioid-induced hyperalgesia).

Inflammation The body’s natural immune response to injury or infection. When chronic, it can fuel pain conditions like arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and back pain.

Integrative Medicine A care model that combines the best of conventional, functional, and holistic therapies for personalized pain relief.

Myofascial Pain Muscle pain caused by tight or irritated trigger points in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles). Often feels like knots or tight bands.

Neuropathic Pain Pain caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. Described as burning, shooting, or tingling. Common in diabetes, shingles, and nerve injuries.

Nociceptive Pain Pain caused by tissue damage or inflammation. Often sharp or aching and associated with injury, surgery, or arthritis.

NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Used to reduce inflammation and treat mild-to-moderate pain.

Opioids Prescription pain medications that work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. Often used for severe pain, but carry risk of dependence and tolerance.

Pain Threshold The minimum intensity at which a stimulus is perceived as painful. Varies between individuals and can be affected by mood, stress, and inflammation.

Referred Pain Pain perceived in a location different from its source. Example: arm pain during a heart attack.

Somatic Pain Pain originating from skin, muscles, or joints. Typically well-localized and responsive to physical therapy and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Trigger Point A sensitive area in muscle or connective tissue that causes pain elsewhere in the body when stimulated. Often treated with massage or dry needling.

Visceral Pain Pain from internal organs, often described as deep, pressure-like, or cramping. Seen in conditions like IBS or endometriosis.

Why Pain Language Matters in Integrative Care

How We Use These Terms in Your Care Plan

Real Case Study: Clarifying Pain, Guiding Results

Testimonials

Explore Our Blog For More Insights

Frequently Asked Questions

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Request your consultation today!

Our medical center in New York City.

Make an Appointment

Important Links

Useful Links

Useful Links

Connect with Us

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