Module 3: Chronic Pain – SURG0133 Chronic pain is defined by IASP as pain that persists or recurs for longer than 3 months. It is a frequently encountered condition, as approximately 20% of the population worldwide suffers from it. It presents a challenge to treat, as chronic pain is multifactorial. Chronic pain comprises biological, psychological and social factors, which together contribute to the patient's symptoms and degree of suffering. Fortunately, there are many forms of therapy available to help sufferers, but all have their limitations depending on the individual to whom they are being applied. Also, the bio-psycho-social factors, co-morbidities, age, resilience etc. can also limit the effect of any therapy being tried. I was looking forward to this module with some personal interest, as I am a chronic pain sufferer, due to having multi-joint pain as a ‘bonus symptom’ of Crohn’s Disease, along with the usual gastro-intestinal symptoms, fatigue etc. Lucky me! So I was...