Chronic Pain

Risk factors are things that increase your chances of getting sick or having a problem. Risk factors for chronic pain include:

• Aging. Older adults are more likely to have certain health problems that can lead to chronic pain, such as arthritis, diabetes, and shingles.
• Certain health problems. These include:
  • Existing health conditions, such as fibromyalgia, shingles, arthritis, depression or anxiety disorders, or phantom limb pain.
  • Past health problems, such as joint injuries or past surgeries.
  • Overall general health. You may have a Reference weakened immune system Opens New Window, which can lead to frequent infections or illness.
• Lifestyle, such as not eating healthy foods, not exercising regularly, smoking, or having a drug or alcohol problem.

Other risk factors include stress, relationship problems, or a history of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.

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