A recent study by Imperial College London investigated the staggering prevalence of chronic pain in the UK. Compiling data from 19 studies and analysing the medical records of over 140,000 people, the research reveals that 28 million Britons – 43% of the population – experience pain lasting more than three months.
This comprehensive study provides new insights into how physical damage can significantly impact daily life.
The Widespread Impact of Chronic Pain
Living with chronic pain isn’t just about discomfort; it can alter behaviour and lifestyle choices. Those suffering often become irritable, withdraw from social activities, and reduce participation in things they once enjoyed.
These changes don’t just affect the individual; they ripple out to family and friends, especially children. Chronic pain is also becoming more common among younger age groups, with one in seven people under 25 affected, primarily due to increased screen time, lack of exercise, and poor diet.
For those aged 18 to 39, three in ten experience ongoing pain, including pregnancy-related discomfort and sports injuries. Headaches and back pain are frequent complaints that, when left untreated, may persist throughout life. The study’s most concerning finding is that two out of every three people over 75 suffer from permanent pain, a statistic driven by degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis.
Chronic Pain Relief Takes More Than Symptom Care
While the study highlights the widespread nature of chronic pain, it’s important to note that it focuses solely on symptoms rather than the underlying functional issues. Pain often stems from joint damage, which disrupts the body’s “chain of movement.” When one joint becomes stiff or restricted, surrounding tissues lose flexibility, leading to calcification and osteoarthritis over time.
Don’t Wait – Get the Relief You Deserve
If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain, it’s never too late to explore chiropractic care. Our goal is to help you regain the lifestyle you thought was gone forever and enjoy a fuller, more active life. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey to better health.