Chronic Pain – Cannabis Research

Description of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists beyond the expected period of tissue healing—typically greater than three months. It represents a complex biopsychosocial condition that may be nociceptive, neuropathic, inflammatory, or centralized in origin. Etiologies range from degenerative and autoimmune disorders to trauma, metabolic dysfunction, or idiopathic (unknown) mechanisms.

Epidemiological data suggest that approximately 25% of the population experiences chronic pain, with nearly half reporting symptom duration exceeding ten years. The condition disproportionately affects older adults, females, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status, though it remains a widespread clinical burden across all demographics.

Unlike acute pain, which functions as a protective response, chronic pain often persists in the absence of ongoing tissue damage. It is associated with significant functional impairment, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare utilization. Furthermore, chronic pain frequently co-occurs with psychiatric comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders—particularly involving opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol.

Management necessitates an interdisciplinary and multimodal approach, incorporating pharmacologic strategies (e.g., NSAIDs, adjuvant antidepressants or anticonvulsants, cannabinoids, and limited opioid use), physical rehabilitation, psychological interventions (e.g., CBT, ACT), and patient education. Adjunctive therapies, including sleep optimization, nutritional interventions, and integrative modalities (e.g., acupuncture, mindfulness, ECS modulation), are gaining support for enhancing outcomes.

A patient-centered model that addresses both somatic and affective components of pain, monitors for medication-related adverse events, and prioritizes functional restoration is essential for effective chronic pain care.