4 Chronic Pain Myths and their Truths

Chronic pain affects 1 in 4 people in the UK, yet it is often misunderstood or dismissed.
Misconceptions don’t just create stigma, they can prevent people from getting the support and treatment they need.
Raising awareness is essential to change this.
By challenging myths and sharing the truth about chronic pain, we can build greater understanding among families, workplaces, and health professionals, and ensure that people living with pain feel seen and supported.
Here are a few of the most common myths and the truths that set them straight:
Myth
“If you look fine, you must feel fine.”
Truth
Chronic pain is often invisible, even when someone looks well.
Myth
“If there’s no test result, the pain isn’t real.”
Truth
Not all pain shows up on scans, but that doesn’t make it any less real.
Myth
“You just need to be more positive or push through.”
Truth
While mindset can help, attitude alone will not cure chronic pain.
Myth
“People with chronic pain just want benefits or attention”
Truth
Most people want to lead active, fulfilling lives. To suggest otherwise just adds to the stigma and isolation they already feel.
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