Chronic pain is often viewed in isolation—as a single, frustrating symptom tied to injury, illness, or aging. But according to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist, chronic pain rarely exists alone. Instead, it can quietly trigger or worsen a wide range of other health issues, affecting both physical and mental well-being.
“Pain that lingers for months or years can be far more damaging than most people realize,” says Dr. Sudberg. “It disrupts sleep, weakens immunity, alters hormones, and increases the risk for numerous secondary conditions. It’s not just about the pain itself—it’s about the whole-body toll it takes.”
In this post, Dr. Sudberg outlines how chronic pain can give rise to other health problems—and what patients can do to protect themselves.
What Is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than three to six months, often persisting beyond the expected period of healing. It can stem from conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, back injuries, nerve damage, or post-surgical complications. Unlike acute pain, which serves a protective purpose, chronic pain often lingers without a clear ongoing cause.
“Think of chronic pain as a signal that’s stuck in the ‘on’ position,” Dr. Sudberg explains. “The nervous system continues to send pain messages, even when there’s no immediate danger or injury.”
The Domino Effect: Health Problems Linked to Chronic Pain
1. Sleep Disorders
One of the most common—and most overlooked—consequences of chronic pain is poor sleep. Pain makes it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or reach deep, restorative sleep stages. In turn, sleep deprivation worsens the perception of pain, creating a vicious cycle.
“Sleep and pain are closely linked,” says Dr. Sudberg. “When patients don’t sleep, their pain feels more intense, and their ability to heal diminishes.”
2. Depression and Anxiety
Mental health disorders are significantly more prevalent among individuals with chronic pain. Up to 50% of patients with long-term pain also suffer from depression or anxiety. The emotional burden of living with daily discomfort, limited mobility, and reduced independence can be overwhelming.
“Pain changes the brain,” Dr. Sudberg warns. “It affects areas responsible for mood, memory, and emotional regulation. Treating the psychological side of pain is just as important as treating the physical.”
3. Cardiovascular Issues
Chronic pain can increase blood pressure and put stress on the heart. The body responds to ongoing pain with elevated stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which over time contribute to inflammation, arterial damage, and a higher risk of heart disease.
“We often think of stress in terms of emotion, but physical stress—like ongoing pain—has the same damaging impact on cardiovascular health,” says Dr. Sudberg.
4. Weakened Immune System
Persistent pain puts the body in a constant state of alert, which can suppress the immune system. As a result, patients may become more vulnerable to infections and slower to recover from illness or injury.
“Your body can’t fight battles on multiple fronts,” Dr. Sudberg explains. “When it’s consumed with pain, other functions—like immune defense—are deprioritized.”
5. Weight Gain and Metabolic Disorders
Chronic pain often leads to reduced physical activity, which in turn can contribute to weight gain, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, stress hormones associated with pain can interfere with insulin regulation and metabolism.
“Pain can change how people move, eat, and sleep—all of which are essential for metabolic health,” says Dr. Sudberg. “A sedentary lifestyle caused by pain can quickly spiral into more serious problems.”
6. Gastrointestinal Problems
Chronic pain and stress also impact the digestive system. Many patients experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, or appetite changes. Medications like NSAIDs and opioids, commonly prescribed for pain, can also cause gastric irritation and constipation.
Dr. Sudberg stresses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach: “We have to be mindful of how treatments for pain affect the rest of the body. Sometimes, solving one problem can create another if not managed properly.”
Proactive Pain Management Is Preventive Health
So what’s the solution? According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, the key is early intervention and a comprehensive pain management strategy that includes physical therapy, non-opioid medications, interventional procedures, and mental health support.
“Managing chronic pain effectively is about more than reducing discomfort,” he says. “It’s about preventing the cascade of additional health problems that chronic pain can trigger.”
Dr. Sudberg’s treatment philosophy involves:
- Identifying the root cause of pain
- Using minimally invasive techniques
- Promoting movement and rehabilitation
- Collaborating with mental health and nutrition experts
Final Thoughts
Chronic pain is more than a symptom—it’s a potential catalyst for widespread health complications. Thanks to physicians like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, patients have access to holistic, informed care that considers both the pain and its many ripple effects. If you’re living with ongoing pain, don’t wait until other issues arise. Taking action today could safeguard your health tomorrow.
