Learn about chronic pain and ways to treat it.

One in five adults in the U.S. have chronic pain that requires care. Chronic pain is a type of pain that lasts for more than three months. The pain can be there all the time, or it may come and go.

Chronic pain happens for many reasons, such as having:

  • A chronic condition (arthritis or cancer)
  • An autoimmune disorder (lupus)
  • A recent or old injury

Ways to Treat Chronic Pain

There are many treatments to manage your pain. Oral medications can bring down inflammation, relax muscles, or calm nerves. Creams and gels can bring down inflammation or numb the part of the body that hurts.

There are also many other options that may be helpful to relieve your pain. People often mix treatments together to find relief.

Treatment options may include:

  • Acupuncture or massage
  • Hot or cold therapy
  • Mindful relaxation
  • Physical therapy or exercise
  • Yoga, Pilates, or meditation

Sometimes people think that strong pain medications, like opioids, are good for pain. However, opioids can be unsafe and are often only used for more serious conditions. It is important to talk with your health care team to make sure any medications you take are safe.

To learn more about chronic pain and treatment, visit our Health and Wellness page.

Your SFHP Benefits

You can get pain treatment at no cost if it is medically necessary. Talk with your primary care provider* (PCP) if you are interested in services such as:

  • Acupuncture
  • Physical therapy

Learn more about your benefits and covered services on our website.

*Your primary care provider (PCP) is the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.

Get a $50 Gift Card

If you are an SFHP Medi-Cal member, you can earn a $50 gift card if you visit your PCP and qualify for any of SFHP’s incentive programs.

To get a $50 gift card, you must:

  • Be diagnosed with asthma, diabetes, or high blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Visit your PCP to talk about your chronic condition