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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names
Pain disorderDefinition Return to top
Somatoform pain disorder is persistent and long-term (chronic) pain due to psychological factors.
Causes Return to top
Pain is one of the most common reasons why people seek medical attention. In somatoform pain disorder, the pain is so severe that it impairs a person's ability to function.
The pain in this condition is thought to be related to psychological factors, such as stress. People with this illness may have other medical problems, but these do not fully explain the pain.
There is a stigma about psychological pain by medical professionals and the general public. Some people do not fully understand the connection between mind and body. They mistakenly believe that psychological pain isn't "real" and should be able to be controlled without medical or mental health treatment.
Symptoms Return to top
The main symptom of pain disorder is chronic pain that lasts for several months and limits a person's work, relationships, and other activities.
Exams and Tests Return to top
A thorough medical evaluation, including laboratory work, is done to determine possible causes of the pain.
Treatment Return to top
Some patients may not believe that their pain is due to psychological factors, and may refuse treatment by a mental health professional. Yet many chronic pain syndromes, including those due to physical problems, can be effectively treated with antidepressants.
Supportive measures such as hot and cold packs, physical therapy, distraction techniques, and massage can also be helpful. Prescription and non-prescription pain medications are usually not effective and can have serious side effects.
Support Groups Return to top
People with this disorder may benefit from treatment at pain centers.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
The outlook is worse for patients who have had symptoms for a long time. Your outlook will improve if you can start doing your previous activities, even with the pain.
Possible Complications Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if you or your child experiences chronic pain.
References Return to top
DeGruy FV. The somatic patient. In: Rakel RE, ed. Textbook of Family Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 61.
Purcell TB. Somatoform disorders. In: Marx J, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier;2006: chap 111.
Update Date: 8/24/2008 Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Timothy A. Rogge, MD, private practice in Psychiatry, Kirkland, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
