If chronic pain is affecting your life, a pain specialist may be able to help.

Everyone has aches and pains from time to time. A sore back after yard work or a twisted ankle usually gets better with rest and time, but when pain sticks around for weeks or months, it can start affecting every part of your life.

Chronic pain may make it harder to work, sleep, exercise or enjoy time with family and friends. It can also affect your mood. Many people develop anxiety or depression because constant pain can be physically and emotionally exhausting.

If you've been living with ongoing pain, you don't have to just grin and bear it. A pain specialist can help you find ways to reduce your pain, improve your daily function and get back to doing the things you enjoy.

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain is pain that lasts for three months or longer. It can happen after an injury, surgery or illness. Sometimes it continues even after the original injury has healed. Common types include back pain, neck pain, arthritis, nerve pain, headaches and pain caused by certain medical conditions.

When should you see a pain specialist?

Your primary care provider can often treat short-term pain. But you may want to ask for a referral to a pain specialist if:

• Your pain has lasted three months or longer.
• Pain keeps you from working, exercising or enjoying everyday activities.
• Pain medicine doesn't provide enough relief or causes unwanted side effects.
• You have ongoing pain after surgery or an injury.
• You have nerve pain, such as burning, tingling or shooting pain.
• You have pain that is becoming worse instead of better.
• Your pain affects your sleep, mood or overall quality of life.

You don't have to wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Getting help may prevent pain from becoming even more difficult to manage.

What does a pain specialist do?

Pain specialists are doctors with extra training in diagnosing and treating many types of pain. Their goal is to help you manage chronic pain so you can live a fuller, more active life. Treatment is often personalized because what works for one person may not work for another.

Your care plan may include:

• Physical therapy to improve strength and movement
• Exercise programs that are safe for your condition
• Non-opioid medications or adjustments to current medications
• Injections or nerve blocks for certain types of pain
• Counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy to help manage the emotional effects of chronic pain
• Lifestyle changes such as better sleep habits, stress management and weight management when appropriate

Many pain clinics use a team approach, working closely with physical therapists, psychologists and your primary care provider.

Is pain management right for me?

Ignoring chronic pain can lead to less physical activity, weaker muscles, poor sleep and social isolation. Over time, these changes can make pain even harder to control. On the other hand, effective pain management focuses on improving your quality of life, as well as treating symptoms.

If chronic pain is interfering with your daily life, talk with your healthcare provider about a referral to a pain specialist. They may be able to offer a personalized treatment plan that helps you move more comfortably, sleep better and enjoy life again.

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Date Last Reviewed: July 20, 2026

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

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