Early Screening to Prevent Chronic Pain

Pain in the back, neck, shoulder, or knee is very common.

In most cases, pain improves over time. However, in some situations, it can last for several months and become chronic.

The good news is that it is often possible to take action early to reduce this risk.

Why Does Some Pain Become Chronic?

Pain does not depend solely on an injury or a physical problem. Several factors can influence recovery, including:

1.       the intensity of the pain at the beginning;

2.       stress and anxiety;

3.       fear of movement;

4.       poor sleep;

5.       fatigue;

6.       lack of support from others;

7.       difficulties at work or in daily life.

All of these factors can affect how the body and brain respond to pain.

Severe Pain at the Beginning: An Important Warning Sign

When pain remains very intense for several days or weeks, it may be a sign that earlier intervention is needed.

This does not mean that the situation is serious or that the pain will become permanent.

However, it may indicate that additional support could help prevent the pain from becoming established.

Chronic Pain Develops Gradually

Chronic pain does not appear overnight.

Over time, the nervous system can become more sensitive. The brain and nerves may then react more strongly to pain signals, even when the tissues are beginning to heal.

This is why the first few weeks are important.

The earlier action is taken, the better the chances of recovery.

Certain Factors Can Slow Recovery

When people are in pain, it is normal:

·     to be afraid of moving;

·     to avoid certain activities;

·     to feel discouraged;

·     to feel stressed or worried.

These reactions are common. However, when they persist for a long time, they can make recovery more difficult.

Healthcare professionals sometimes refer to these factors as “yellow flags.”

Simple Tools to Better Support You

Today, short questionnaires are available to help professionals better understand the risk of persistent pain.

These tools help provide care that is adapted to each person’s needs.

Some people may only need:

·     advice;

·     simple exercises;

·     and reassurance.

Others may benefit from:

·     closer follow-up;

·     more comprehensive support;

·     or additional help managing pain.

What Can Be Done to Support Recovery?

Keep Moving Gradually

Prolonged complete rest is rarely the best solution.

Gentle movement and gradually returning to regular activities often help people recover more quickly.

The important thing is to progress at your own pace.

Understanding Pain

Receiving clear and reassuring explanations can help:

·     reduce worries;

·     decrease fear of movement;

·     better manage symptoms.

Understanding pain often helps people regain confidence in their bodies.

Addressing Stress and Emotions

Stress, anxiety, and certain negative thoughts can increase pain.

In some cases, approaches such as:

·     relaxation;

·     stress management;

·     or psychological support

can help improve recovery.

Key Takeaways

Persistent pain is not inevitable.

Today, healthcare professionals have better tools to identify people who are at greater risk of developing chronic pain.

The earlier care is adapted to the person’s needs, the better the chances of recovery.

Early screening helps give people the best chance of preventing pain from becoming long-lasting.

References:

Artus, M., Campbell, P., Mallen, C. D., Dunn, K. M., van der Windt, D. A. (2017). Generic prognostic factors for musculoskeletal pain in primary care: A systematic review. BMJ Open, 7(1), e012901. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012901

Cohen, S. P., Vase, L., Hooten, W. M. (2021). Chronic pain: An update on burden, best practices, and new advances. The Lancet, 397(10289), 2082–2097. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)00393-7

Daoust, R., Paquet, J., Cournoyer, A., Piette, É., Morris, J., Bhatt, M., Bhéreur, A., Bhatt, M. (2020). Relationship between acute pain trajectories after an emergency department visit and chronic pain: A Canadian prospective cohort study. BMJ Open, 10(12), e040390. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040390

Dowell, D., Ragan, K. R., Jones, C. M., Baldwin, G. T., Chou, R. (2022). CDC clinical practice guideline for prescribing opioids for pain — United States, 2022. MMWR Recommendations and Reports, 71(3), 1–95. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.rr7103a1

Dunn, M., Rushton, A. B., Mistry, J., Soundy, A., Heneghan,