Feeling a few aches and pains after playing with the grandchildren or swinging a golf club is normal; feeling persistent pain for long periods of time isn’t. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain, making it one of the most common causes of disability among retirees.

Physicians define chronic pain as physical distress persisting at least six months. The most common forms are back, neck, head and musculoskeletal pain. Often, medication doesn’t help, but chronic pain can be treated in other ways.

“There are several options for treating chronic pain without medications,” said Tony Bohannon, clinical manager of outpatient services at Baptist Rehab Center. “Physical therapy, massage therapy and thermotherapy— the use of heat and ice—can be very effective.”

Contact your physician if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Pain for more than three months without a known explanation.
• Feelings of depression because of pain.
• Lack of sleep because of pain.

If you think you may be suffering from chronic pain, here are some important questions to ask your doctor:

• What is causing the pain?
• How serious is the condition?
• What activities need to be avoided?
• What treatment options should I consider?
• How long will it take to notice results?
• What can I do to prevent the pain from returning?

“It’s important to know that help is available,” said Bohannon. “Chronic pain isn’t something you just have to live with.”