psychogenic pain disorder

psychology

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Last updated

June 17, 2026

Quick Summary

Psychogenic pain disorder is characterized by persistent pain complaints that lack an identifiable organic cause and are linked to psychological factors. This condition is a type of somatoform disorder, where psychological distress manifests as physical symptoms.1

Key features include:
* Pain that doesn't align with the nervous system's known anatomical distribution.1
* Symptoms that are not fully explained by a medical condition, or where there's evidence of psychological influence.21
* Excessive concern, anxiety, or preoccupation with the symptoms.2

While the exact mechanisms are complex, psychological factors can influence pain perception. Treatments may involve addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the pain.3

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mental disorder
Psychogenic pain disorder
In psychogenic pain disorder the main feature is a persistent complaint of pain in the absence of organic disease and with evidence of a psychological cause. The pattern of pain may not conform to the known anatomic distribution of the nervous system.…
Read More
In psychogenic pain disorder the main feature is a persistent complaint of pain in the absence of organic disease and with evidence of a psychological cause. The pattern of pain may not conform to the known anatomic distribution of the nervous system.…
Read More