Chasing Comfort The Hidden Dance Between Pain and Dependence

This presentation examines the complex, bidirectional relationship between chronic pain, long-term opioid therapy, and the development of complex persistent opioid dependence and opioid use disorder (OUD). We will explore shared neurobiological pathways, including tolerance, hyperalgesia, reward dysregulation, and stress system activation, that complicate pain management over time. Clinical implications for assessment, risk stratification, and integrated treatment approaches will be discussed.

Objectives:

-Describe the neurobiological and clinical overlap between chronic pain, opioid dependence, and opioid use disorder.

-Distinguish complex persistent opioid dependence from OUD in the context of chronic pain treatment.

-Identify principles of integrated, patient

-centered management that address pain, function, and opioid-related risk. 

Continuing education credits available: Nursing Home Administrator and Social Worker

Presenter: Dr. Jennifer Ball, PharmD, BCGP, Minnesota Direct Care and Treatment 

Presented: May 11, 2026