Pain disorder

Pain disorder is a medical condition characterized by persistent or recurrent pain that is the primary focus of clinical attention. The pain is often associated with significant emotional distress and functional disability.

Definition

Pain disorder is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) as a condition in which pain is the predominant focus of the clinical presentation and is of sufficient severity to warrant clinical attention.

Classification

Pain disorder can be classified into two types:

• Pain Disorder Associated With Psychological Factors: This type of pain disorder is characterized by the presence of psychological factors that are judged to have a major role in the onset, severity, exacerbation, or maintenance of the pain.

• Pain Disorder Associated With Both Psychological Factors and a General Medical Condition: This type of pain disorder is characterized by the presence of both psychological factors and a general medical condition, both of which are judged to have a role in the onset, severity, exacerbation, or maintenance of the pain.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of pain disorder is the experience of pain that is severe enough to interfere with daily activities. The pain may be localized or widespread, and it may vary in intensity. Other symptoms may include anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.

Causes

The exact cause of pain disorder is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of physical, psychological, and environmental factors. These may include a history of physical or emotional trauma, chronic medical conditions, and certain personality traits.

Treatment

Treatment for pain disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and physical therapy. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and improve function.

See also

• Chronic pain
• Pain management
• Psychosomatic medicine

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