Learn About Chronic Pain

What is chronic pain?

Pain is the body’s alarm system, triggered when sensory nerve cells, called nociceptors, detect tissue damage and send signals through the spinal cord to the brain. When pain lasts for more than six months, it’s considered chronic. Unlike acute pain, which usually has a specific cause that heals over time, chronic pain can persist long after the original injury or illness has resolved. This makes chronic pain more challenging to manage and can disrupt sleep, interfere with activities you enjoy, and affect both your physical and emotional well-being.

Causes and risks factors of chronic pain

Chronic pain can have many triggers. For some, it starts with an injury, like a back sprain or sports accident, while for others, conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or nerve damage are at play. It’s also common for pain to be a symptom of broader health issues, such as autoimmune diseases or cancer. Recognizing what’s behind your pain is the first step to finding relief.

What does chronic pain feel like?

Chronic pain feels different for everyone. It can range from a persistent ache to burning or stinging sensations. Sometimes it’s localized — like in the back or hips — and other times, it may be felt throughout the body.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain lasting more than three months
• Aching, burning, or throbbing sensations
• Muscle stiffness or joint pain
• Fatigue and sleep disturbances
• Mood changes

What are the risk factors for chronic pain?

Some factors can make chronic pain worse or harder to manage, including:

• Genetics
• Aging
• Previous injuries
• Stress
• Physical inactivity and poor sleep
• Smoking

Reducing these factors can help in managing chronic pain more effectively.

How is chronic pain diagnosed?

Diagnosing chronic pain involves a comprehensive evaluation by a pain specialist who can identify specific causes and treat underlying conditions contributing to the pain. This process typically includes a full review of your medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests.

Because pain is a personal and subjective experience, your healthcare provider may ask:

• Where do you feel pain and how intense is it?
• How often does the pain occur and how does it impact daily life?
• Do certain activities make it better or worse?
• Have you experienced significant stress or other health issues?

To gain a clearer picture, your provider may recommend tests such as bloodwork, imaging, or nerve studies to better understand the underlying cause of your pain.

How is chronic pain treated?

Chronic pain management can be complex, but the right approach can greatly improve your quality of life. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, increasing mobility, and minimizing its impact on your daily activities. Depending on the underlying cause, your care team may recommend a combination of therapies, as research shows a multi-therapy approach often works best. Starting with less invasive treatments, your team will adjust your plan as needed. Common options include:

• Lifestyle changes: Weight management, better sleep, and staying active
• Therapies: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain psychology
• Mind-body practices: Meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy
• Complementary medicine: Massage, biofeedback, and acupuncture
• Medical management: Injections, nerve stimulation, or, in some cases, surgery
• Medications: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or opioids when necessary

Since each person’s experience with pain is unique, finding the right combination of treatments may take time. Close communication with your provider can help refine your plan as your needs evolve.

What is the outlook for people with chronic pain?

While chronic pain may not completely go away, it is possible to manage it effectively with the right strategies and support. By staying engaged and committed to your treatment plan, you can develop strategies that work best for your body and lifestyle, helping you regain control over your life and activities.