Sometimes for years. Calif. Headaches and back problems are common sources of chronic pain. So are some diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, or arthritis. Md. More than 25 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. But sometimes the source of chronic pain is hard to pinpoint, making treatment difficult.
Chronic pain can wreak havoc on families.
People might find they no longer can work or carry out their daily routines. They might have to rely on family members for help, changing everyone s roles and responsibilities. Such adjustments can cause enormous stress for the entire family. Janice K. says her family underwent counseling to cope with all of the changes in our lives following a car accident that launched her 20-year battle with pain. Janice went from being an active mother of three children to someone who couldn t walk or lift her arms from above the elbows.