what is chronic pain

Chronic pain is a long-lasting condition that persists beyond the usual recovery period or occurs along with a chronic health condition, such as arthritis. It can last for months or even years and can occur anywhere in the body. Chronic pain can interfere with daily activities, lead to depression, anxiety, and trouble sleeping, and may be difficult to treat. It is a common problem, with approximately 25% of adults in the United States experiencing chronic pain. The first step in treatment is to find and treat the cause, and when that isn't possible, a combination of medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes is often the most effective approach