Adolescent pain

Headaches, abdominal pain and musculoskeletal pain are the most common forms of adolescent pain.

Adolescents with untreated or poorly treated chronic pain often can become socially withdrawn and isolated and are at risk of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

As with pain at any age, it is important to look for underlying harmful structural contributors in addition to exploring the possible contribution of stress.

Management

Sometimes adolescent pain is dismissed as a symptom of stress, which should be managed, but if it is ongoing it should be investigated. In some cases, there may be no obvious explanation for the pain.

Intervention with prescription painkillers or surgery is not recommended. Should pain persist, ask your doctor for a referral to a paediatric pain specialist and/or paediatric pain clinic.

Those who live in a regional area may require travel to a major city, however, there may be telehealth options available. Teens aged 18 and over can access an adult pain clinic.