Understanding Chronic Pain

The Physiology of Chronic Pain
What is pain? Why does certain pain persist? Learn more about the human body’s pain response, what causes pain, different types of pain, and how pain may change over time.
Common Chronic Conditions
There are a multitude of medical conditions and symptoms that can cause chronic pain. Common chronic conditions include arthritis, cancer, migraines, and more.


Opioids for Chronic Pain
Opioids, also called narcotics, are powerful pain medications used to block pain signals and alter the sensation of pain. Opioids are commonly used to treat short-term (acute) pain, like after surgery, to promote recovery by mitigating negative effects caused by untreated pain. Long-term use of opioids, however, has been associated with unique risks.