Chronic pain causes much unnecessary suffering and overwhelming disability. It robs independent, healthy, happy people of sleep, prosperity and inner peace. Pain also affects us emotionally. People with chronic pain need to be allowed to grieve their loss. Too often, misinformation and misunderstanding impede pain management.
People dealing with chronic pain fear the reactions of family, friends and society in general.
Some professionals may have insufficient time to listen to pain complaints, or may lack expertise in treatment options. Past practices have discouraged the use of opioid pain medication, and health care professionals and others may have a false fear of addiction. Medical professionals who are well educated in the treatment of chronic pain with opioids and with comprehensive treatment plans are strong allies. As this month's feature story shows, good friends also can help enormously in the management of chronic pain. I think often of that woman who bounded into our office, her pain finally contained.