Causes and Complications of Chronic Pain - Adult Health and Wellness
Often called 'the fifth vital sign,' pain is as important as temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure as a key indicator of a patient's medical status. The longer we live, the more likely it is that we will eventually experience some type of injury or disease that results in temporary or even chronic pain. Surgeries become more frequent, both elective and those deemed vital to our survival and well-being. Injury and surgery leads to scar tissue that may cause lingering pain, mar our outer appearance, and diminish certain movement capabilities.