Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for six months or more. According to information from the National Centers for Health, approximately 35 percent of American adults live with some element of chronic pain, and about 50 million Americans are partially or totally disabled due to chronic pain. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that chronic pain costs the American public more that $100 billion a year in medical expenses, lost wages and other costs.

Under the direction of Tomer Anbar, PhD, Scripps Mercy has established the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program as a new alternative for treating patients living with chronic pain. This program addresses a number of health issues, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Memory difficulties
• Sleep problems
• Stomach problems
• Stress

The goal of the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program is to help patients find relief and regain control of their lives. Relief is achieved through a combination of comprehensive based treatments, research, education and advocacy.

Evaluations are conducted at both Scripps Mercy campuses. For more information on the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program, call 877-727-5974 or send an e-mail to chronicpainrehab@scrippshealth.org.