Back Pain
Chronic Pain Syndromes
Understanding Long-Term Back and Spine Pain
Most people experience occasional back or neck pain that improves with rest, medication, or therapy. But when pain persists for three months or longer, it is considered chronic pain. Chronic pain syndromes can be frustrating, exhausting, and isolating — especially if you’ve tried multiple treatments without lasting relief. At Desert Spine and Pain, we know chronic pain isn’t “just in your head.” It’s a real medical problem that deserves compassionate, expert attention. Under the guidance of Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, one of the nation’s leading neurosurgeons, we help patients in Phoenix and across Arizona understand their condition, find effective treatments, and reclaim quality of life.
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What Are Chronic Pain Syndromes?
A chronic pain syndrome is a condition in which pain continues long after the original injury or problem has healed. In the spine, this may involve ongoing issues with discs, joints, nerves, or muscles. Sometimes the nervous system itself becomes overly sensitive, amplifying pain signals.
Common Causes
Degenerative disc disease – Ongoing pain from worn-down spinal discs Learn about Degenerative Disc Disease
Arthritis of the spine – Long-term inflammation of facet joints See Facet Joint Syndrome
Nerve injuries – Ongoing irritation from herniated discs or stenosis
Failed back surgery syndrome – Persistent pain after prior spine surgery
Fibromyalgia – Widespread muscle and joint pain that can involve the spine
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) – A chronic pain condition affecting nerves and tissues
Symptoms
Ongoing back or neck pain lasting 3+ months
Pain described as dull, burning, or stabbing
Stiffness or reduced mobility
Fatigue, poor sleep, and difficulty concentrating
Depression or anxiety related to ongoing discomfort
Reduced ability to work, exercise, or enjoy daily life
Diagnosis
At Desert Spine and Pain, diagnosing chronic pain syndromes involves:
Medical history & physical exam – Reviewing prior treatments and identifying pain patterns.
Imaging – MRI, X-ray, or CT scans to look for structural issues.
Nerve testing – EMG or nerve conduction studies for neurological symptoms.
Comprehensive evaluation – Considering how pain affects physical, emotional, and daily functioning.
Treatment Options
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for chronic pain. We build personalized treatment plans that may include:
Conservative Approaches
Medications for pain and inflammation
Physical Therapy for mobility, posture, and strength
Lifestyle adjustments (weight management, ergonomics, stress reduction)
Interventional Pain Management
Epidural Steroid Injections
Facet or SI joint injections
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for nerve-related pain
Spinal cord stimulation (in select patients)
Surgical Options
When structural problems are the root cause and other treatments fail:
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Spinal Fusion for instability or advanced degeneration
Revision surgery for failed prior procedures
Recovery and Management
Chronic pain requires a long-term management strategy rather than a single quick fix. Many patients benefit from:
Multidisciplinary care — combining neurosurgery, physical therapy, and pain management
Regular follow-ups — to adjust treatment as needed
Emotional support — counseling or support groups for coping with chronic pain
Ongoing care — exercise and posture care to prevent flare-ups
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Expertise in complex pain – Dr. Greenwald specializes in identifying and treating chronic spine-related pain.
Comprehensive care – From conservative therapies to advanced surgical solutions.
Patient-centered approach – We take time to explain, reassure, and walk with you through every stage.
Compassionate support – Helping patients feel understood, not dismissed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is chronic pain different from acute pain?
Acute pain lasts days to weeks and usually resolves as the body heals. Chronic pain persists for 3+ months, even after tissues have healed.
Is chronic pain all in my head?
No. Chronic pain syndromes are real medical conditions involving nerves, muscles, joints, and the brain’s pain-processing pathways.
Can chronic pain be cured?
Not always, but it can be managed effectively with the right combination of treatments. Many patients return to active, fulfilling lives.
Do I need surgery for chronic pain?
Not necessarily. Surgery is only considered when structural issues are clearly the cause of pain and conservative options fail.
How does Desert Spine and Pain approach chronic pain differently?
We combine neurosurgical expertise, pain management strategies, and compassionate patient care — helping patients feel supported and empowered.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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If you’ve been living with chronic pain, lasting relief begins with the right specialist by your side. Dr. Greenwald and his compassionate team are here to help uncover the root cause of your pain and design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Every step you take toward better spine health is a step toward a more active, fulfilling life. Don’t wait another day—schedule your consultation today and let us help you move forward with less pain and renewed hope.
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Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon specializing in the comprehensive management of chronic pain syndromes related to spinal disorders. He understands that long-term pain can be physically and emotionally exhausting, often affecting every aspect of daily life. Dr. Greenwald takes a multidisciplinary approach—combining advanced diagnostics, targeted pain management strategies, and when appropriate, minimally invasive spine surgery—to help patients find meaningful, lasting relief. With years of experience treating complex spine-related pain, he is dedicated to improving function, reducing dependency on pain medications, and helping patients throughout South Florida regain control of their lives.
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