Difference Between Acute vs Subacute Pain
Those who have experienced pain before may have heard the terms acute and subacute pain, but what do they mean? It is important to know their similarities and dissimilarities to help find the correct treatment. This guide will break down the differences between the two and provide ways to treat the pain. Read on for tips, ideas for pain relief, and how to know the difference between acute vs subacute pain.
How Long Does Acute vs Subacute Pain Last For?
One major difference between acute and subacute pain is how long it lasts. Acute pain usually happens suddenly for a limited amount of time (usually less than a month). Acute pain is often caused by surgery, trauma, or injury to the body. Another difference is how often the pain lasts. Acute pain is described as sudden pain lasting less than 30 days, and pain lasting one to three months is described as subacute pain.
Acute pain turns into subacute pain when you are still experiencing symptoms a month later and can linger for up to three months. One similarity between acute vs subacute pain is that both can turn into chronic pain. Chronic pain is any pain that continues after three months and can be treated with medicine or self-care.
What Does Subacute vs Acute Pain Feel Like
The symptoms of subacute vs acute pain are similar to each other, but the main difference is the length of time. Acute pain can feel like a sharp, stabbing, burning, or throbbing sensation that causes numbness or weakness. Acute pain can also cause your heart rate to increase and can make you breathe faster.
Subacute pain can feel either sharp or dull and may happen consistently or sporadically. When it comes to acute vs subacute pain, one isn't worse than the other, however, subacute pain can last longer than acute pain. You may feel subacute pain when sitting, moving, or laying down in a certain position.
What are Some Examples of Acute vs Subacute Pain?
The sources of acute vs subacute pain can be similar, but the main difference between acute and subacute pain is the length of time the pain lasts. If you have had an injury, given birth, had surgery, etc., and are feeling pain afterward, paying attention to how long the pain lasts can help you treat your symptoms faster. Consulting with your physician can identify whether you are experiencing acute vs. subacute pain.
Some examples of acute pain include:
- Injuries such as broken bones, fractures, and sprains
- Medical procedures such as surgery or dental work
- Pains from burns, cuts, or infections
- Childbirth
Examples of subacute pain can include:
- Inflammation in the body
- Neck pain
- Pain from kidney stones
- Scar tissue
How to Treat Acute vs Subacute Pain
There is little difference between acute vs subacute pain treatment. Since the methods are similar for both types of pain, you may be able to pick and choose regardless of whether you have acute vs subacute pain. The main focus is to relieve pressure from the painful area, reduce inflammation, and to restore your body through plenty of sleep and self-care.
Some ways to treat acute vs subacute pain can include plenty of rest and relaxation, such as using a zero gravity recliner, or getting enough sleep. Other ways include physical therapy, massages, and low impact exercises such as yoga. You can also try adding heat/ice to the injured area to help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Here are some ways you can find relief from acute vs subacute pain:
- Physical activity
- Create a spa relaxation room
- Resting the painful area
- Zero gravity recliners
1. Engage in Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activity can regulate your weight while also reducing stress on your joints and back. Choose low-impact exercises such as walking, yoga, and golf vs high impact exercises to decrease your chance of injury. Before performing any exercise, be sure to stretch before and after to relieve muscle tension.
2. Create a Spa Relation Room
Creating a spa relaxation room can be beneficial for both your body and mind. Dealing with any kind of pain can be physically and emotionally stressful, so creating a relaxing environment can help you feel better. The key to setting the mood for a spa relaxation room includes dim lighting, comfortable seating, and scented candles or essential oils.
3. Get Plenty of Rest
Getting enough sleep helps restore your body and can promote healing. There seems to be a connection between sleep and pain as 67%-88% of those with chronic pain have insomnia or wake up often, while at least 50% of people experiencing insomnia also deal with chronic pain. If you experience back pain after sleeping, then you may need to make some adjustments to your posture and sleep position to reduce symptoms.
4. Invest in a Zero Gravity Chair
A zero gravity chair can provide comfort to areas of injury and may make you feel more relaxed. There are different types of zero gravity chairs available, such as those with heating and vibrating features, or even both. The zero gravity position may also improve circulation and can help you fall asleep faster to encourage healing.
How to Treat Subacute vs Acute Pain
The pain from subacute vs acute seems to last longer which makes a difference between acute vs subacute pain treatment. For example, if you are experiencing subacute pain, then you may want to make a few investments such as purchasing a zero gravity chair with vibration massage to make those couple of months less stressful.
Taking action right away can prevent that sprained ankle, for example, from turning into chronic ankle pain.
When treating subacute vs acute pain, you may want to try:
- Deep breathing
- Massages
- Eating a healthier diet
1. Breathe Deeply
Breathing deeply can help subside subacute pain through relaxation. To get the best results, make sure to sit in a meditation chair or lay in a comfortable position, focus on your breath, and practice daily. When breathing, inhale gently through the nose and exhale through your mouth to help your body ease into relaxation.
2. Massaging the Area of Pain
Massaging the injured area can help relieve pain by relaxing the muscles while reducing stress and anxiety. You can go to a massage therapist or if you own a zero gravity chair with air massage, then you can use this to save on money and time. Be careful not to add too much pressure to avoid aggravation or inflammation and always consult your doctor before starting treatment at home.
3. Eating Healthier
If you are suffering from acute/subacute joint pain, then a healthy body can take the stress off your joints and improve mobility. If you are looking to change your diet, then focus on colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, and plant protein high in fiber, such as beans, seeds, and nuts. Adding antioxidants to your diet can help reduce inflammation and the effects of subacute pain on your body.
The Difference Between Acute vs Subacute Pain Treatment Matters
There is not much of a difference between acute vs subacute pain except for the duration, which can make it feel a bit more intense than acute pain. However, you should take both types of pain seriously to prevent chronic pain. Whether you choose self-help treatments or over-the-counter medication, make sure to always consult with your doctor first.
Disclaimer: This content is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professional when considering implementing changes to your health or workout routines to ensure it’s compatible with your needs.
Additional Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9289983/
