What defines acute pain?

Acute pain is characterized by its relatively short duration, typically lasting less than 90 days. It is often a direct result of a specific injury, surgical procedure, or identifiable medical condition. This type of pain serves a biological purpose, acting as a warning system in the body, indicating that something is wrong.

This definition distinguishes acute pain from chronic pain, which persists beyond the usual course of healing and can last for months or even years. Additionally, while sudden onset pain can occur, it doesn't solely define acute pain without considering the duration and cause. A connection to chronic conditions also deviates from the typical characteristics of acute pain, as chronic pain often has different underlying mechanisms and implications for treatment and management. Thus, understanding that acute pain is tied to a specific, short-term cause is essential to effectively address and manage it in clinical practice.