ABSTRACT
Chronic pain is a widespread problem in western nations. Although prevalence estimates vary across studies, a conservative estimate is that at least 10 per cent of the adult population suffers from some form of chronic benign pain (Verhaak et al., 1998). It should be kept in mind, however, that many of those with chronic pain do not necessarily seek or require specialized pain management services. Some manage their pain mostly outside of the conventional healthcare system, whereas others do use the healthcare system, but are relatively satisfied with the care they receive. Most in the latter group are cared for by a single practitioner who monitors their pain condition, prescribes appropriate medication, and draws upon consulting specialists as needed. A third subgroup includes those chronic pain patients who are not satisfied with the care they receive through the conventional medical system. These individuals complain that their pain is inadequately controlled and often show deterioration in their daily functioning. They are much more likely to have seen a variety of medical specialists and treated unsuccessfully with a variety of medications and physical procedures including surgery and other invasive measures. Such individuals are most likely to be referred to pain specialists, tertiary chronic pain treatment clinics, and multidisciplinary pain centers.
