The Problem of Chronic Pain and Addiction and Its Treatment

Carl R. Sullivan, M.D.

This presentation will focus on the interface of chronic pain and drug addiction as a frequently encountered clinical problem. Historical content will be supplied. A discussion will be presented regarding identifying the "high risk" patient.

Goals and Objectives

By the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to:

1. discuss the history of chronic pain and addiction as a problem;
2. relate similarities between chronic pain and addiction;
3. identify the high risk patient.

Presentation Outline

1. History of Chronic Pain Treatment as is related to prescription opioid epidemic
2. Chronic Pain as a Disease State
   1. Gate Theory
   2. Secondary Gain of Pain
3. Addicting Drugs and Chronic Pain
4. Identifying the High Risk Patient
5. Treatment Options