Chronic Pain

The Chronic Pain topic includes research on the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of pain that persists over time or beyond normal healing. The topic includes research on painful chronic conditions, such as complex regional pain syndrome, neuropathies, and migraines. Chronic pain may follow an injury, accompany an illness, or occur without a clearly identified cause.

Persistent pain can interfere with movement, sleep, work, and everyday activities. It can also affect emotional well-being and relationships. Because pain involves both the body and the brain, understanding the factors that cause and sustain it can help guide care that reduces its impact and improves physical function and quality of life.