Understanding Chronic Pain...

Pain is the most common symptom experienced with injuries and many illnesses. For most people, pain diminishes as part of the natural healing process. Yet, for over 40 million Americans, pain has become a chronic problem requiring specialized treatment.

Chronic pain not only causes discomfort, it can actually interfere with the natural healing process. The stress caused by chronic pain can affect an individual's ability to tolerate treatment for an underlying medical condition.

Chronic pain often results in several other problems that affect overall well-being. Lack of appetite and sleep, anxiety, depression, and an inability to participate in work and social activities are common problems associated with chronic pain. Left untreated, chronic pain can become debilitation and demoralizing.