Mechanisms of Chronic Pain Related to Traumatic Experiences and Emotions

Chronic pain, which is widespread worldwide, has negative physical and psychological effects and can cause serious decreases in quality of life. There are various types of chronic pain such as musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, head-facial pain and it is caused by different factors. However, it is one of the issues that should be taken into consideration that chronic pain that manifests itself on the body is not only caused by biological reasons, but may also have a psychological background. In this context, there is a lot of evidence that psychological trauma plays an important role in the onset of chronic pain by increasing pain sensitivity and severity. In the light of this information, how different types of trauma such as ‘psychological trauma’, ‘post-traumatic stress disorder’, ‘childhood traumas’ affect chronic pain has been mentioned in detail. In addition, emotional factors also play a role in chronic pain, and even pain and emotions share a common neurobiology. Research findings on how the relationship between different types of emotions and chronic pain has been revealed. In the literature, there are many studies on the connection of emotions and psychological trauma history with the body. However, especially in Turkey, studies examining these variables in chronic pain are insufficient and it is thought that more research is needed. Accordingly, the aim of this article is to review the existing theories and research on the relationship between chronic pain, trauma and emotions.