🩺 Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain stems from prolonged inflammation that creates scar tissue and persistent pain cycles. Common manifestations include sharp or dull sensations in bones, nerves, or tissues affecting the pelvis, abdomen, back, or joints. Patients often report soreness upon waking, tight muscles, headaches, joint popping, limited flexibility, backaches, and numbness—all stemming from inflammation and reduced circulation.
Associated health challenges frequently accompany chronic pain:
- Fatigue
- Hypertension
- Anxiety and anger
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia and depression
Long-standing inflammation leads to scar tissue and adhesions that hinder proper circulation and perpetuate the pain cycle.
🏥 In-Office Treatment Modalities
Dr. Skip’s clinic recommends a multi-modal approach combining natural therapies to soothe inflammation, increase circulation, and promote healing.
Core Treatment Options: (click on any of the below to learn more)
🗺️ Treatment Plan Structure
A structured approach is essential for lasting relief. The initial care plan typically begins with 6 to 8 consecutive weekly treatments to establish momentum and build a foundation for long-term results. For chronic or severe cases, patients should expect approximately 3 rounds of treatment cycles to stabilize rehabilitation in severe cases.
Available Treatment Levels:
| Level | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Gentle Manual Therapy 🌿 | 30 minutes | Acute conditions, high sensitivity, calming nervous system |
| Therapeutic Manual Therapy 💪 | 45 minutes | Ongoing recovery, injury rehab, stress-related tension |
| Rehabilitative Manual Therapy 🏥 | 60 minutes | Chronic issues, structural imbalances, severe dysfunction |
A community acupuncture option featuring auricular acupuncture-only is also available for cost-effective, collaborative care.
🧴 Topical Pain Management Solutions
WuYang Pain Patches (Transdermal Delivery)
These patches provide sustained-release medication absorbed directly through the skin into the bloodstream, avoiding liver and gastrointestinal processing. Each application lasts 8–12 hours and works to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and deliver cumulative relief.
Effective Conditions:
- Swelling and minor aches
- Muscle and joint pain
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Bulging discs
- Backaches and arthritis
- Bruises, nerve issues, sprains
⚠️ Beware of Amazon counterfeits—purchase authentic products only.
DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide)
DMSO is a naturally occurring solvent derived from wood pulp, found in trace amounts in alfalfa, onions, beans, beer, and marine algae. Its standout feature is the ability to penetrate biological membranes, making it an excellent carrier for other therapeutic agents.
Benefits:
- Pain relief for general aches, nerve pain, muscle soreness, and arthritis
- Inflammation reduction linked to rheumatoid arthritis and bulging discs
- Tissue repair support and swelling reduction
The FDA classifies DMSO among the safest solvent categories.
Safety Guidelines:
- Do not apply on broken skin or open wounds
- Avoid use during pregnancy due to insufficient data
- Start with small amounts to assess tolerance
- Wash hands before and after each application
🌿 Herbal ANG Capsules
Herbal ANG is a clinically standardized botanical blend traditionally used for a wide range of pain conditions. From a Western perspective, it provides therapeutic actions for modern biomedical applications. Within Traditional Chinese Medicine, it works to move Qi and Blood and release stagnation.
⚠️ Never self-prescribe herbal formulas. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment.
Nutritional choices and lifestyle practices can complement the formula’s effectiveness and play key roles in preventing recurrent pain.
🛠️ Therapeutic Devices for Home Care
Therapro PEMF Infrared Red Light Pads
These pads combine two advanced therapies:
- PEMF Therapy – Stimulates and rejuvenates cells; research from the Journal of Inflammation Research shows effective pain and inflammation reduction
- Infrared/Red Light Therapy – Enhances cellular repair (Photomedicine and Laser Surgery) and manages musculoskeletal pain (Laser in Medical Science)
Documented Benefits:
- Chronic pain relief
- Enhanced muscle recovery for athletes
- Improved sleep and relaxation
- Better circulation and stress reduction
Theragun Pro Plus
This device mimics gua sha, a 2,000-year-old Chinese therapy. The high-tech percussive therapy delivers benefits beyond classic manual techniques for muscle release and recovery.
⚠️ Important Considerations
Never stop prescription medications without consulting your doctor. While medications control pain, they do not address underlying inflammation perpetuating the problem. Opioids carry high addictive and abuse potential, making them suitable only for short-term use as a stopgap measure.
A holistic approach addresses both pain and associated mental/emotional factors. Dr. Skip coordinates care with other providers and is trained in both Western and Eastern modalities to guide patients through all available options.
📞 Getting Started
Book appointments online or schedule an in-person consultation at Dr. Skip’s downtown Huntington, WV office. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 10am to 7pm. The practice proudly serves veterans and welcomes coordination with other healthcare providers.