While some pain is normal and a necessary signal for our bodies, there is also pain that can be persistent and chronic. What is the difference between acute and chronic pain? And why do our brains sometimes amplify discomfort? We spoke with Daniel J. Clauw, MD, director of the Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center at the University of Michigan, about the complexities of pain management, how widespread and long-lasting pain is often rooted in the central nervous system, and treatments that go beyond just targeting muscles or joints. From physical therapy to acupuncture and mind-body techniques, we explore a range of strategies to help restore function and improve quality of life. 

<p>While some pain is normal and a necessary signal for our bodies, there is also pain that can be persistent and chronic. What is the difference between acute and <a class="linkable-text" href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/understanding-pain-management-chronic-pain" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-testid="linkable-text">chronic pain</a>? And why do our brains sometimes amplify discomfort? We spoke with <a class="linkable-text" href="https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/cpfrc/daniel-j-clauw-md" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-testid="linkable-text">Daniel J. Clauw, MD</a>, director of the Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center at the University of Michigan, about the complexities of pain management, how widespread and long-lasting pain is often rooted in the central nervous system, and treatments that go beyond just targeting muscles or joints. From physical therapy to acupuncture and mind-body techniques, we explore a range of strategies to help restore function and improve quality of life. </p>

WebMD Chief Physician Editor Neha Pathak, MD, and Chief Medical Officer, John Whyte, MD, MPH, explore fascinating stories to find the unexpected things that help us understand our health.

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While some pain is normal and a necessary signal for our bodies, there is also pain that can be persistent and chronic. What is the difference between acute and ? And why do our brains sometimes amplify discomfort? We spoke with , director of the...