Mental health
Addiction and chronic pain: Managing both conditions
Published February 5, 2025 · 8 min read · Updated April 2026
Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.
Chronic pain and addiction frequently co-occur, creating one of the most challenging clinical scenarios in medicine.
The challenge
Pain drives substance use. Substance use worsens pain over time (opioid-induced hyperalgesia). Undertreating pain risks relapse. Opioids risk addiction progression.
Solutions
Non-opioid pain management (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, nerve blocks, physical therapy). Buprenorphine treats both addiction and pain simultaneously. Mindfulness-based stress reduction. CBT for chronic pain. Integrative approaches (acupuncture, massage). Pain psychology.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find help?
Call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 or search our directory.
Is treatment effective?
Yes. Evidence-based treatment works.
Does insurance cover this?
Yes under the Mental Health Parity Act.
Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.