Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Chronic pain management involves strategies and treatments aimed at alleviating long-term persistent pain that lasts beyond the normal healing time. It focuses on improving quality of life rather than completely eliminating pain.
Related terms
Physical Therapy: This involves exercises, stretches, or other physical techniques aimed at reducing chronic pain through improved movement, flexibility, strength, etc.
CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals manage their thoughts and behaviors related to chronic pain by addressing negative thinking patterns and developing coping mechanisms.
Pharmacological Interventions: These are medications prescribed by healthcare professionals to help manage chronic pain, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antidepressants.