1. False. If you continue to experience pain long after the original injury heals, or after you've healed from a surgery or illness, you may be experiencing chronic pain or pain from another cause. It's best to see your doctor to get it checked out.
2. True. But studies have shown that short-term use of opioids—which include prescription narcotics such as morphine, codeine, and oxycodone—is safe and doesn't typically cause addiction. Proper management by a physician is key.
3. False. People with chronic pain often report being able to return to a normal level of activity after they've received proper treatment. In fact, exercise is often considered an essential part of treatment.
4. False. Chronic pain can have multiple causes and affects people of all ages. It can often be successfully treated.
5. False. Many psychologists, especially those who work in pain clinics, are trained to help people learn how to manage and reduce pain symptoms. They often teach techniques thought to be useful in dealing with pain, such as biofeedback and guided imagery.
SOURCES: Expert interviews, National Institute on Drug Abuse.
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