Chronic pain sufferers continue to work

Persistent, chronic pain among U.S. workers has risen in the past 10 years, with workers in chronic pain choosing to go to their jobs rather than call in sick.

A recent survey found that chronic pain was more common in the workplace in 2006 than it was in 1996, leading to a growing trend of presenteeism- a negative impact on work despite being physically present at the job.

The survey findings are from a 2006 national survey on "Pain in the Workplace." A website, www.PainAndWork.com, has more information about the survey findings, tips for dealing with pain on the job and additional resources.

"Chronic pain appears to be increasing in prevalence among U.S. workers as Americans age and lead more sedentary lifestyles," said Rollin Gallagher, MD, editor-in-chief of the website www. NationalPainFoundation. org and clinical professor and director at the Center for Pain Medicine, Research and Policy, University of Pennsylvania.

"This survey indicates that employees with chronic pain must become their own advocates, understand the impact of their chronic pain and collaborate with their healthcare professional to identify appropriate treatment options," said Gallagher.

"Patients are looking for ways to manage their pain, and there are treatments that can help, such as diet and exercise, physical therapy (and) acupuncture . . ." said Charles Argoff, MD, assistant professor of neurology, New York University School of Medicine.

This story is provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.