Learning to measure chronic pain: a complex, but necessary challenge

Pain is an unpleasant sensory experience. It is, therefore, always associated with an emotion. And, as with any emotion, it is very difficult to measure it accurately. Blood sugar or cholesterol can be measured, but not emotions. At least, not easily. We have no objective scale to measure it with.

Currently, a subjective scale from 0 to 10 is used to measure pain. However, it is extremely difficult to measure something that cannot be seen or touched. Therefore, measuring chronic pain has become one of the greatest challenges for health professionals.

Chronic pain is the type that persists for over 3 months. It is currently considered the most common health problem in our country and environment, affecting a large number of people. According to Dr Christian Dürsteler, head of the Pain Clinic Section at Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, “We are talking about 20%, or even 30% of the population.”

Different pharmacological methods are used for its treatment. However, the most recommended strategies are based on prevention via a comprehensive approach to the person; that is, the so-called biopsychosocial approach. As Dr Dürsteler explains, "Empowerment of the patient and the caregiver are essential in the treatment of chronic pain." “With therapeutic education, psychological support, relaxation techniques and physiotherapy being the most effective," he adds.

Living with chronic pain

A series of indications should be followed to control the symptoms of chronic pain:

Tobacco. Some studies have concluded that smoking can influence pain to some extent.

Alcohol and caffeine. The same goes for excess alcohol and caffeine.

Physical exercise. Pain must be respected, as it is an alarm signal from the body and must be listened to. However, if suffering pain leads to a significant reduction in physical activity, it can start a vicious circle, whereby inactivity causes more pain and more fatigue. The most appropriate recommendations for physical exercise should be given and supervised by a physiotherapist; establishing the degree of intensity, duration and progression of each exercise.

Sleep. Pain can make sleep worse, but sleep disturbances can also make pain worse. Therefore, it is important to sleep well.

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