What is musculoskeletal pain?
Musculoskeletal pain is discomfort that affects any of your:
- Bones
- Joints
- Ligaments
- Skeletal muscles
- Tendons
You may have localized musculoskeletal pain (in one area of your body) or widespread discomfort affecting multiple areas. It can range from mild to severe and may be short-term or long-term.
Musculoskeletal pain is very common. It’s the most frequent type of benign (or noncancer-related) pain, and nearly everyone experiences it at least once in their lives — most often from a muscle strain. Chronic conditions like lower back pain are also common and can impact daily life.
What does musculoskeletal pain feel like?
Musculoskeletal pain can vary based on the cause, location and affected tissue. It may be sudden from an injury or develop over time from overuse or chronic conditions.
- Bone pain: Often feels deep, dull or achy as if coming from inside the body. Fractures may cause sharper or more intense pain.
- Joint pain: Can be constant or come and go. May feel stiff, sore or achy or have a burning, throbbing or grating sensation. Often worsens with activity and improves with rest. May include swelling, redness or cracking/popping sounds.
- Muscle pain (myalgia): Can be a steady ache or sudden sharp pains. May occur all over the body or in specific areas. Can include cramps, spasms or twitching.
- Tendon and ligament pain: Typically sharp and worsens with movement or stretching. Often improves with rest.
- Fibromyalgia-related pain: Widespread pain with multiple tender spots often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances and cognitive issues.
- Nerve compression pain: Feels like tingling, pins and needles or burning. May cause weakness and trouble moving the affected area.
Other symptoms can include stiffness, soreness, fatigue, reduced range of motion and sleep disruptions which can interfere with daily activities.
How long does musculoskeletal pain last?
The length of time musculoskeletal pain lasts depends on its cause, severity and how it’s treated.
- Acute pain from minor injuries, such as muscle strains or sprains, may improve within a few days to a few weeks with rest, ice, compression and elevation or other conservative treatments.
- Subacute pain can last several weeks to a few months, often seen with more significant injuries or conditions that take longer to heal.
- Chronic pain from ongoing issues like arthritis, fibromyalgia or nerve compression can last for months or even years. This type of pain may require long-term management to control symptoms and maintain function.
In general, getting an early diagnosis, following a treatment plan and making lifestyle changes — such as staying active and maintaining good posture — can help shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of recurring pain.
What causes musculoskeletal pain?
Musculoskeletal pain can result from sudden injuries or develop gradually from chronic health conditions. Injuries are the most common cause and often lead to acute (sudden) pain, but certain conditions can cause chronic (long-term) pain. Sometimes, injuries that do not heal properly can also lead to ongoing discomfort.
Short-term (acute) causes
Pain that starts suddenly is often linked to injuries or infections, such as:
- Bone injuries: Bone bruises (contusions) and fractures.
- Joint injuries: Dislocations or sprains (stretched or torn ligaments).
- Muscle and tendon injuries: Muscle bruises, torn muscles or tendons.
- Repetitive strain injuries: Tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow.
- Other causes: Muscle spasms or cramps, pyomyositis (muscle infection), osteomyelitis (bone infection) and septic arthritis (joint infection).
These injuries can happen to anyone but are especially common in athletes and people with physically demanding jobs.
Long-term (chronic) causes
Pain that lasts for months or years often comes from ongoing health conditions, such as:
- Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
- Connective tissue diseases: Scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- Muscle and nerve conditions: Fibromyalgia, myopathies such as muscular dystrophy and myositis.
- Joint and bone disorders: Gout, joint hypermobility syndrome, osteoporosis and osteopenia.
- Spine-related conditions: Neck or back pain from spinal stenosis or degenerative disk disease.
- Rare neurological conditions: Stiff person syndrome.
How is musculoskeletal pain diagnosed?
If you have ongoing or severe musculoskeletal pain, your healthcare provider will work to find the cause so you can get the right treatment. Diagnosis usually involves a combination of a medical history review, a physical exam and, if needed, lab work or imaging tests. The goal is to identify which part of the musculoskeletal system is affected and why.
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Medical history and exam
Your provider will ask about your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse. They will review your personal and family health history, including any recent injuries, illnesses or activities that could be related. During the physical exam, your provider may:
- Check your range of motion
- Look for swelling, redness or bruising
- Test muscle strength and joint stability
- Palpate (press on) the affected area to locate tenderness
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Lab tests
Lab tests can help identify inflammation, infection or underlying conditions that may be causing musculoskeletal pain. Your provider may order one or more of the following:
- Blood tests: These can check for signs of inflammation (such as C-reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate), infection, autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, and certain nutrient deficiencies that may affect bone or muscle health.
- Urine tests: These can detect kidney problems, infections, metabolic disorders or abnormal protein levels that may be linked to musculoskeletal symptoms.
- Joint aspiration: Also called arthrocentesis, this involves using a thin needle to remove a small amount of fluid from a swollen joint. The fluid is examined for signs of infection, crystals from gout or pseudogout or other inflammatory conditions that affect the joints.
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Imaging tests
Imaging helps your provider see inside your body to assess bones, joints, muscles and connective tissue. Common options include:
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan can show details or problems associated with bones. Your doctor may order a CT scan if MRI is not an option.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: MRI can show details of soft tissues such as tendons, ligaments, muscles and bursae. It can also identify some fractures not visible on standard X-rays.
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound can show inflammation and other problems around joints or tears in tendons.
- X-rays: Doctors most commonly use X-rays to diagnose bone fractures. This type of imaging does not show muscles, tendons or ligaments.
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Nerve function tests
Nerve function tests help your healthcare provider evaluate how well your nerves and muscles are working. These tests can pinpoint nerve damage, identify the location of the problem and help distinguish between nerve and muscle conditions that may be causing musculoskeletal pain or weakness.
- Nerve conduction studies: Measure how quickly electrical signals travel through your nerves. Small electrodes are placed on the skin over a nerve and a mild electrical impulse is sent to stimulate it. Slower-than-normal speeds may indicate nerve damage or compression.
- Electromyography (EMG): Records the electrical activity in your muscles at rest and during movement. A thin needle electrode is inserted into the muscle to measure its response. Abnormal patterns can indicate nerve dysfunction, muscle disease or problems with the connection between the two.
Musculoskeletal pain treatment
Musculoskeletal pain treatment focuses on relieving discomfort, improving movement and addressing the underlying cause. Your treatment plan will depend on the location and severity of your symptoms, whether your condition is acute or chronic and your overall health. Care often involves a combination of self-care, medical treatments and supportive therapies tailored to your needs.
Lifestyle changes and at home remedies
Making certain changes in your daily habits can help prevent flare-ups and support healing. Staying physically active with low-impact exercises like swimming or walking can keep muscles and joints flexible. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on your back, hips and knees. Practicing good posture while sitting, standing and lifting can prevent added stress on muscles and joints. At home, alternating heat and cold therapy can ease stiffness and reduce soreness. Gentle stretching before and after activity may also help prevent injury.
Complementary therapies
Complementary therapies or integrative medicine, can work alongside conventional medical treatments to help manage musculoskeletal pain. These approaches often focus on improving mobility, reducing discomfort and supporting overall well-being.
- Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. Acupuncture can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
- Massage therapy: A hands-on approach that can relieve muscle tightness, improve blood flow and promote relaxation. Techniques range from gentle Swedish massage to deep tissue massage, depending on your needs.
- Chiropractic care: Focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those involving the spine. Chiropractors often use manual adjustments and other techniques to improve joint function and reduce discomfort.
- Yoga or tai chi: Gentle movement-based practices that combine stretching, strengthening and mindfulness. These can improve flexibility, balance and stress management.
- Mind-body therapies: Practices like meditation, guided imagery and breathing exercises can help manage stress, which can play a role in chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Medication
Your doctor may prescribe various medications, depending on the type and severity of your symptoms. These may include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medicines like ibuprofen, naproxen and celecoxib reduce inflammation and discomfort. They are available in oral and topical forms both over the counter and by prescription.
- Opioids: Strong prescription medicines, such as hydrocodone or oxycodone, may be used for short periods when other treatments are not effective for severe discomfort.
- Anticonvulsants: Drugs like gabapentin and pregabalin are used to manage nerve-related pain, such as pain caused by a spinal cord injury.
- Musculoskeletal agents (muscle relaxants): Medicines such as baclofen and tizanidine can relieve muscle tightness and spasms.
- Steroid injections: Cortisone injections can reduce inflammation in a specific area, providing relief for arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis and other localized pain conditions.
Therapy
Therapy plays an important role in treating musculoskeletal pain because it focuses on restoring movement, building strength and helping you return to your normal activities. A therapist can also teach you strategies to protect your muscles, joints and bones so you can prevent future injuries.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist designs a personalized exercise program to target the muscles, joints and tissues affected by your condition. This can include stretching to improve flexibility, strengthening exercises to support weak areas and low-impact aerobic activity to boost endurance. They may also use manual therapy (hands-on techniques) or tools like ultrasound and electrical stimulation to reduce soreness and improve circulation.
- Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist focuses on helping you manage everyday tasks more comfortably and safely. This might involve learning new ways to perform movements that reduce strain, modifying your work or home environment and using assistive devices like braces, splints or ergonomic tools. The goal is to keep you active and independent while protecting your body from further stress or injury.
Therapy often works best when combined with other treatments such as medication or lifestyle changes, and it can be tailored to your unique needs, abilities and goals.
Surgery
When other more conservative methods are not effective for severe or chronic pain that disrupts your daily life, surgery is sometimes an option. This depends on the cause of your pain, your overall health and other factors. Your doctor will discuss surgical options with you and explain any benefits and risks.
Find specialized care for musculoskeletal pain
At Baylor Scott & White, we help you get care at a location that fits your needs when it comes to the care and treatment of orthopedic conditions, such as musculoskeletal pain, in North and Central Texas. Whether you're seeking diagnostic testing, treatment options or require ongoing support, our teams are here to help you.
Baylor Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint Hospital
1814 Roseland Blvd Ste 100, Tyler, TX, 75701
Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital - Sherman
3601 N Calais St , Sherman, TX, 75090
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 300, Greenville, TX, 75402
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - McKinney
5220 W University Dr POB II, Ste 300, McKinney, TX, 75071
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Hip Preservation Center - McKinney
5220 W University Dr Ste 220, McKinney, TX, 75071
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Orthopaedic Trauma Associates - McKinney
5220 W University Dr POB II, Ste 220, McKinney, TX, 75071
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - McKinney
5252 W University Dr Highway 380 at Lake Forest Drive, McKinney, TX, 75071
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - Rockwall
825 W Yellowjacket Ln , Rockwall, TX, 75087
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Lake Pointe
6800 Scenic Dr , Rowlett, TX, 75088
Baylor Scott & White Spine & Scoliosis Center - Frisco at PGA Parkway
16050 Everwell Ln Professional Pavilion I, Ste 310, Frisco, TX, 75033
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Frisco at PGA Parkway
7600 Better Way , Frisco, TX, 75033
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Centennial
4401 Coit Rd Ste 203, Frisco, TX, 75035
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Spine & Scoliosis Center - Frisco
4401 Coit Rd Ste 203, Frisco, TX, 75035
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Centennial
12505 Lebanon Rd , Frisco, TX, 75035
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - North Garland
7217 Telecom Pkwy Ste 325, Garland, TX, 75044
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - North Garland
7150 N President George Bush Hwy Ste 101, Garland, TX, 75044
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas at The Star
3800 Gaylord Pkwy Ste 810, Frisco, TX, 75034
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Sports Surgery Center at The Star
3800 Gaylord Pkwy Ste 410, Frisco, TX, 75034
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Spine & Scoliosis Center at the Star II
3800 Gaylord Pkwy Ste 830, Frisco, TX, 75034
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Frisco
5601 Warren Pkwy , Frisco, TX, 75034
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Sunnyvale
231 S Collins Rd , Sunnyvale, TX, 75182
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Sunnyvale
341 Wheatfield Dr Ste 290, Sunnyvale, TX, 75182
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - Plano
1701 Ohio Dr , Plano, TX, 75093
- Monday: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White - Plano Brain and Spine Center
4708 Alliance Blvd Pavilion I, Ste 810, Plano, TX, 75093
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Plano
4716 Alliance Blvd Pavilion II, Ste 600, Plano, TX, 75093
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Plano
4700 Alliance Blvd , Plano, TX, 75093
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - North Dallas
12230 Coit Rd Ste 200, Dallas, TX, 75251
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Greater Dallas Orthopaedics
12230 Coit Rd Ste 100, Dallas, TX, 75251
- Monday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - Carrollton
4780 N Josey Ln , Carrollton, TX, 75010
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Park Cities
9101 N Central Expy Ste 370, Dallas, TX, 75231
North Central Surgical Center Hospital
9301 N Central Expy Ste 100, Dallas, TX, 75231
Park Cities Surgery Center
6901 Snider Plz Ste 300, Dallas, TX, 75205
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Surgicare - Dallas
4020 Junius St , Dallas, TX, 75246
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White The Shoulder Center at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas
3900 Junius St Ste 740, Dallas, TX, 75246
- Monday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas
3900 Junius St Ste 500, Dallas, TX, 75246
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Spine & Scoliosis Center - Baylor University Medical Center
3900 Junius St Ste 705, Dallas, TX, 75246
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Baylor University Medical Center, part of Baylor Scott & White Health
3500 Gaston Ave , Dallas, TX, 75246
Baylor Scott & White Orthopaedic Trauma Associates - Dallas
3409 Worth St Ste 300, Dallas, TX, 75246
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Uptown
2727 E Lemmon Ave , Dallas, TX, 75204
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Flower Mound
1110 Parker Sq , Flower Mound, TX, 75028
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital - Las Colinas
400 W Lyndon B Johnson Fwy Ste 101, Irving, TX, 75063
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Irving
2001 N MacArthur Blvd Ste 630, Irving, TX, 75061
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Greater Dallas Orthopaedics - Irving
2001 N MacArthur Blvd Ste 630, Irving, TX, 75061
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Irving
1901 N MacArthur Blvd , Irving, TX, 75061
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Complex Shoulder Institute
1631 Lancaster Dr Ste 230, Grapevine, TX, 76051
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Grapevine
1650 W College St , Grapevine, TX, 76051
Baylor Scott & White Orthopaedic Trauma Associates - Grapevine
1631 Lancaster Dr Ste 230, Grapevine, TX, 76051
- Monday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Grapevine
1631 Lancaster Dr Ste 230, Grapevine, TX, 76051
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
North Texas Surgery Center
7992 W Virginia Dr , Dallas, TX, 75237
- Monday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Trophy Club
2850 E State Highway 114 , Trophy Club, TX, 76262
Frequently asked questions
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How long does musculoskeletal pain last?
Musculoskeletal pain can last days to weeks if acute or 3 months or longer if chronic. Duration depends on the cause, severity and treatment. Seek medical care if pain is severe, limits daily activities, persists despite home care or occurs with swelling, redness or fever.
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Does musculoskeletal pain ever go away?
Yes, musculoskeletal pain can go away — especially when it’s acute and caused by minor injuries or temporary conditions. Chronic conditions like arthritis may require long-term management. If it lasts more than a few weeks, gets worse, or comes with numbness, tingling or chest discomfort, see a healthcare provider for evaluation.
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Does musculoskeletal pain cause chest pain?
Yes, musculoskeletal pain can cause chest discomfort from conditions like costochondritis, muscle strain or rib injuries. It often feels sharp or achy and may worsen with movement. Because chest pain can also be a sign of heart problems, see a doctor right away to find the cause and get proper care.
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Does musculoskeletal pain come and go?
Yes, musculoskeletal pain can come and go. It may be short-term after an injury or long-term from chronic conditions. The pattern depends on the cause, severity and treatment. Seek medical care if symptoms are severe, persistent or interfere with daily activities.
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Can musculoskeletal pain be cured?
Musculoskeletal pain can often be improved and managed, but whether it can be completely cured depends on the underlying cause. Acute pain from an injury may resolve fully with proper treatment, while chronic conditions may not be curable but can be controlled through ongoing therapy, lifestyle changes and medical care.