The Difference Between Acute Pain and Chronic Pain

Pain is the body’s way of getting our attention. But not all pain is the same.

Acute Pain

This is short-term pain that signals actual tissue damage — like a sprained ankle or a broken bone. Acute pain usually improves as the body heals - generally within 3 months.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is different. It can last months or years, even after tissues have healed. Often, the nervous system is stuck in “alarm mode,” continuing to send pain signals when there’s no ongoing damage.

Understanding this difference is important. Chronic pain is real — but it may not mean your body is broken. With approaches like PRT, it’s possible to retrain the brain, reduce pain, and restore quality of life. Want to find out if PRT could be helpful for you? Book your first session today!