Acute Pain happens suddenly and doesn’t last
long. It’s connected to a cause.
Example:
Someone falls and bruises/scrapes a knee. The pain may last for a few days to weeks
while the knee heals.
Chronic Pain lasts longer
than three months. It may or may not have a specific cause.
Example:
Someone is in a car accident resulting in a back injury, which can take a long
period of time to get better. In some cases, it never completely heals.
- Understanding the differences between the two types of
pain is important. It will help you and your PCP decide how to manage your
pain.
- Managing your pain is important so you can continue your
daily living, relationships with others, and doing what you enjoy.