Chronic headaches, facial pains, chronic upper limb pain syndrome – previously called repetitive strain injury (RSI) or 'teno' – are other examples of chronic pain syndromes. The pain leads to changes in the way people behave and may affect their mood and feelings. In all of these situations, the cause of pain is difficult to describe exactly. The person in pain often feels let down by modern medicine and poorly understood by family, friends and professional advisers. They, in turn, may then find it difficult to deal with the problem. Somebody in chronic pain may see a large number of specialists and sometimes receive different, or even contradictory, explanations and a wide variety of suggested treatments. She/he ends up confused, frustrated, angry and depressed. However, there are 'pain management' clinics, specialising in the care of chronic pain, which are set up to enable people in these circumstances to cope better. Your GP should be able to refer you for advice and help.

One rare problem is called reflex sympathetic dystrophy or complex regional pain syndrome. It often follows a minor injury, an operation or a stroke. It is difficult to treat unless recognised early and treated appropriately. Even then the condition may become chronically painful, and joints and muscles may become stiff and contracted. If severe, referral to a pain specialist is essential. 

Source: Arthritis Research Campaign