Don't settle for pain.

Do not settle for living in pain.

Pain is a common part of life, and in many cases, it is temporary – such as discomfort after surgery, a pulled muscle that quickly resolves or a sprained ankle that heals over time. This acute pain typically improves as the body recovers. Chronic joint and muscle pain, however, is different. It lasts three months or longer and can vary widely from person to person. 

People often describe it as:

• Aching or throbbing
• Burning
• Shooting
• Squeezing
• Stiffness
• Stinging

Over time, chronic pain can make everyday activities more difficult – limiting movement, reducing independence and interfering with the ability to do the things once enjoyed.

The Impact of Chronic Pain

Many people wait to seek care until pain feels unbearable, but chronic pain affects more than just the body. It can impact nearly every part of life – work, hobbies, relationships, mental health and overall well-being.

Chronic Pain is Often Associated With:


Anxiety or depression


Difficulty sleeping
or insomnia


Fatigue or low energy


Irritability or mood changes

When persistent pain begins to interfere with daily activities, disrupt sleep or affect emotional well-being, it may be time to seek professional evaluation. Addressing pain earlier can prevent symptoms from worsening and help restore quality of life.

World-Class Pain Management Options in Centre County

Penn State Health offers advanced pain management care using specialized technology and evidence-based techniques designed to address chronic and complex pain conditions. The goal is to reduce pain, improve function and help patients move forward with greater comfort and confidence – whether returning to daily activities, work or recreation.

A medical provider is helping an older patient stretch his arm across his body to help with pain management.

Common Pain Conditions Treated
Penn State Health pain management specialists care for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Back and neck pain
• Chronic pain
• Fibromyalgia and other pain syndromes
• Musculoskeletal pain affecting joints, muscles or soft tissues

• Neuropathy
• Spine and spinal cord injuries
• Sports injuries
• Tendinopathy
• Vertebral compression fracture

• Arthritis
• Back and neck pain
• Chronic pain
• Fibromyalgia and other pain syndromes
• Musculoskeletal pain affecting joints, muscles and
  soft tissues
• Neuropathy
• Spine and spinal cord injuries
• Sports injuries
• Tendinopathy
• Vertebral compression fracture

Pain Does Not Have to be the Norm

Living with chronic pain can slowly become part of daily life – but ongoing pain does not have to be accepted as normal. With the right support, many people are able to reduce discomfort, regain function and reclaim control over day-to-day activities. 

Schedule a Pain Management Consultation

Schedule a Pain Management Consultation

Team-Based Approach to Care

At Penn State Health, pain management care is built around collaboration. Sports medicine, orthopaedic and physical therapy teams work together to deliver seamless, coordinated care.

Driven by Innovation

As part of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and the Penn State College of Medicine, specialists leverage research-driven innovation and advanced technology to enhance patient outcomes. This includes procedures such as C-ARM image-guided pain-relief injections, which improve accuracy and effectiveness while minimizing impact on surrounding tissues.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Driven by Innovation

As part of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and the Penn State College of Medicine, specialists leverage research-driven innovation and advanced technology to enhance patient outcomes. This includes procedures such as C-ARM image-guided pain-relief injections, which improve accuracy and effectiveness while minimizing impact on surrounding tissues.

Schedule an Appointment Today
A patient is currently laying down in a C-ARM machine, while a doctor works on receiving x-ray imaging using the machine.

Penn State Health Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy

143 Hospital Drive, Suite #112, State College, PA 16803
814-865-3566

Best Hospitals in U.S. News & World Report: Orthopedics, 2023-2024

Penn State Health Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy

143 Hospital Drive, Suite #112, State College, PA 16803
814-865-3566

Best Hospitals in U.S. News & World Report: Orthopedics, 2023-2024