What Is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is the pain that lasts for a long time (more than 3 months). Chronic pain is not only caused by tissue damage. Studies show that the brain and nervous system can also play a role in maintaining pain.

Pain is not just a signal from the body. It is a warning produced by the nervous system. When there is damage in the body, this system is activated, but sometimes, even after the damage has healed, the pain continues. In such cases:

The brain starts to overinterpret "danger" signals.

The nervous system becomes "sensitized" and can react with pain even to harmless stimuli.

This is called central sensitization as if the volume of your nervous system has been turned up too high.

The Nervous System Learns and Changes

The nervous system, like a computer, changes itself as it learns. This is called neuroplasticity.

Negative experiences, stress, fear, and unhelpful thoughts about pain can "reprogram" the nervous system in a painful way.

But positive information, movement, proper breathing, and a sense of safety can help rewrite this program!

What Can You Do?

✅ Understand the pain: It's important to know that pain is a warning signal and doesn’t always mean there is damage.
✅ Keep moving: Gentle and safe exercises help calm the nervous system.
✅ Manage stress: Deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and psychological support (if needed) can be helpful.
✅ Challenge negative thoughts: Instead of believing “this pain will never go away,” try thinking, “My nervous system can learn to feel safe again.”
✅ Stay active in daily life: Avoiding movement or staying in bed too much can actually slow down recovery.

How Will Your Treatment Be Planned?

Physical therapy

Exercise

Pain education

Medications or injections

Psychological support (such as cognitive behavioral therapy)

Complementary therapies, if needed (e.g., acupuncture)