Pain is the most common reason that people seek medical help—yet it remains one of the most neglected and misunderstood areas of healthcare.
One in five adult Australians suffer chronic pain. Injury is the most common cause of chronic pain, This prevalence rises to one in three people over the age of 65. A third of all people who experience chronic pain are unable to identify the original cause. Other identified causes include arthritis, musculoskeletal conditions, headache, cancer-related pain, post surgical persistent pain and non-specific lower back pain etc. Chronic pain is estimated to cost the Australian economy $34.3 billion each year, which equates to $10,847 for each person with the condition.
It is possible to effectively manage 70-80 percent of chronic pain. Despite this, only 10 percent of those affected are getting access to adequate treatment.
Chronic pain is best managed collaboratively by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals.If you have acute pain, it's important to have it assessed as soon as possible. Early assessment and intervention are important in preventing the progression from acute to chronic pain.