Infographic: A Nation in Pain

This infographic details the massive problem of chronic pain in the US and how it can often lead to painkiller abuse and addiction. Drawing upon research from a variety of sources such as the CDC and the NYU Langone Medical Center, this infographic states that 1 in 3 US adults suffers from chronic pain. It also offers a diverse array of pain management techniques from acupuncture to exercise, biofeedback, and meditation – in addition to the often overused solution of prescription pain medication. According to this infographic, although Americans make up only 4.5% of the world’s population, they consume 80% of the world’s opioid painkillers. The combination of high levels of chronic pain and painkiller use among Americans illustrates the need for a dual-track approach to treatment for pain and addiction in order help millions break free from a perpetual cycle of chronic pain and substance abuse.