Somatoform pain disorder

Alternative names:

chronic pain disorder; pain disorder

Definition:

A persistent complaint of pain without a physical cause, or the impairment is greater than would be expected from the physical findings.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

There is no specific cause, but stress or conflict may be evident. The pain may have a special significance or may serve as a way to receive attention. People with this disorder may receive attention, sympathy or relief from responsibilities from others, or financial compensation from disability that may sustain the pain and behavior.

Usually there is an anatomical change within the body as a result of disease or injury that is irreversible because multiple interventions to relieve the pain or abnormality have been unsuccessful. Chronic anxiety and depression may develop, with a corresponding decrease in the pain threshold. Changes in lifestyle commonly take place, and the person in the sick role becomes the focus of the family. Drug dependency problems commonly develop.