Chronic or persistent pain is defined as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks or extends beyond the expected healing time for a specific injury. This type of pain can manifest in various ways, such as localized sharp pain or a widespread, dull ache, and may be constant or intermittent. There are many reasons why pain can persist beyond typical healing times, including co-existing health conditions, poor sleep, stress, and your thoughts and beliefs about the pain itself. Chronic pain is often associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, and chronic pain syndrome. It’s important to consider other factors in your life during the period your pain persists, as these may contribute to the ongoing discomfort.