How many people have physical pain?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There are many causes of physical pain, and therefore, large numbers of people have it. It has been estimated that over one-quarter of the population of the United States ages 20 and older has experienced at least one day of pain each month, and that more than 10 out of every 100 people ages 20 and older have experienced physical pain lasting longer than one year. Most claims of job-related disability are related to chronic physical pain.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pain

Pain is your body telling you that you have hurt it. This is a good thing, important when you are injured. It can also help diagnose problems with your body. Sometimes pain continues long after it's necessary. Amputees report phantom pain in the legs or arms they no longer have. There are different kinds of pain, and describing the type is useful in diagnosis: recurring, constant, steady, knife-like, radiating, sharp, dull. Medicines that dull pain are analgesics. Those that kill all feeling are anesthetics.

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