The author cites classic reasons why chronic pain may be undertreated by medical providers. These reasons include:

- inadequate training of medical staff

- concerns and unfounded fears about addiction

- some providers believe that pain should be severe before a

treatment option is selected



The author distinguishes between physical dependence and addiction. Physical dependence may precipitate a feeling of illness once the drug is stopped. Addiction refers to a psychological longing or dependence on the drug.

Patients have a right to report pain and expect that medical

providers will believe the critical incidences reported by the

patients. Treatment is a right which flows from the medical

provider's understanding of the medical history and appreciation for the pain sensations reported.



Classic cancer warnings are increased bladder or bowel movements,

chronic swallowing problems, unexplained lethargy, persistent

infections, unhealed sores, shortness of breath or hoarseness.



A pain inventory may consist of the following:

- diagram of the pain

- description of the worst incidences

- interference with activity

- sleep interference

- decreased energy



Most health care treatments are geared toward curative therapies.

The World Health Organization has stated that " In short,

the right drug at the right dose given at the right time relieves

80% to 90% of pain." WHO: Cancer Pain and Palliative Care-

A Technical Report Series 804 of WHO 1990 and 1996 Revised



This work discusses classic pain modalities; such as, TENS and

drug choices for chronic pain. It is a solid value for the price

charged.

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