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 Find Effective Care for PTSD and Chronic Pain
About 50% of Veterans with PTSD also experience chronic pain — pain that is reoccurring and lasts more than three months. Trauma can change how the body processes pain, making some people more sensitive to it. Like PTSD, chronic pain is often invisible. Those affected by chronic pain are often misunderstood or not believed.
Chronic pain and PTSD often go hand in hand. Both can impact your physical health, mood, relationships, and daily activities. Treating both conditions typically requires multiple health care providers working together. Veterans may receive PTSD care from mental health specialists and pain treatment from primary care doctors or pain clinics. The most effective approach is when these teams coordinate care. Some VA clinics now offer combined treatment for both PTSD and chronic pain in one place.
Beyond formal treatment, self-management tools can also help. VA's Pain Coach Mobile App offers resources on managing pain, improving sleep, and staying active. It includes videos, relaxation techniques, and customizable daily check-ins to help you stay on track.
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PTSD Bytes Podcast
 Chronic Pain and PTSD
In this episode of the PTSD Bytes podcast, doctors Murphy and Hadlandsmyth explain the difference between acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) pain, and the relationship between pain and PTSD. They also talk about treatment options and digital tools for self-management of pain symptoms.
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PTSD In the News
Dr. Sloan Honored for Traumatic Stress Research
Dr. Denise Sloan is the latest recipient of the Robert Laufer, PhD Award for Outstanding Scientific Achievement from the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.
Learn more about the award and Dr. Sloan's accomplishments in the field of traumatic stress disorders.
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Research Opportunity
Help Improve Digital Mental Health Care
Have you experienced worsening stress or traumatic events? Stanford University and Talkspace are studying effective, messaging-based treatments for trauma.
Participants will receive 13 weeks of free online treatment. By participating, you can help improve digital mental health care and make interventions for trauma more accessible.
Eligible participants must be a resident of the United States, have computer or smartphone access, be 18 or older, and live in a State where the study has available therapists.
Want to take part in the study? Email texting_study@stanford.edu and request the screening link for research eligibility.
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