Chronic pain syndrome (CPS) is a constellation of syndromes that usually do not respond to the medical model of care. This condition is managed best with a multidisciplinary approach, requiring good integration and knowledge of multiple organ systems.
Chronic pain syndrome takes a toll on both your physical and mental health. While the pain can be near-constant, there may be flares of more intense pain due to increases in stress or activity. Chronic pain symptoms include: joint pain, muscle aches, burning pain, fatigue, sleep problems, loss of stamina and flexibility, due to decreased activity, mood problems, including depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Chronic pain syndromes often develop after an acute pain, such as an injury, but they may develop with no recognised preceding injury. Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for longer than the expected time for recovery of injured tissues, nominally 3 months.
Chronic pain syndromes are more common in women's health than men’s health. People with depression or anxiety are also more likely to develop chronic pain syndromes. Some people who have chronic pain syndrome later develop anxiety or depression as a result of their illness.
