Doctors believe that stress plays a role in chronic pain. In some people, it is an important part of the pain; in others, it has less of an effect. The stress-related portion of chronic pain is referred to as psychogenic pain because its origin is psychological rather than physical. That doesn’t mean the pain isn’t real—it is every bit as real as pain that results from a cut or burn.

It isn’t clear why some people with acute pain go on to become chronic pain sufferers and others don’t, but scientists believe that psychogenic pain may play a role, and they are looking for ways to identify which people are most likely to become chronic pain sufferers.

One thing is clear, and that is the fact that the longer the pain continues, the more likely it is to develop into a broader problem that can lead to physical deterioration from a lack of exercise and emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, it is extremely important to treat pain quickly. Don’t wait to get help—take action as soon as the pain begins.