Abstract

Secondary depression resulting from chronic pain can linger because of poor consideration of the primary
cause, leading to increased morbidity and functional limitation. Recent studies indicate that 20% of U.S. adults
experience chronic pain, and 8% report high-impact pain17. Furthermore, 8.1% of adults report experiencing
depression3. This study within the fields of physical medicine and rehabilitation and psychiatry investigates the
association between chronic pain and secondary depression within an adult population of California’s Central Valley. By uncovering the prevalence and severity of secondary depression, more directed treatment protocols can be developed that lead to efficient resource distribution and improved patient well-being. Benefits include reduced opioid use, reduced ER utilization, and restoration of functionality for patients. We believe that investigating patient charts for diagnoses and history of physical illness will reveal a significant patient population in the Central Valley with chronic pain and secondary depression. We believe that further investigation will reveal a strong correlation of disproportionate opioid use and more frequent office visits within this population. A validated positive correlation between duration and severity of chronic pain and severity of depression would provide evidence to prioritize treatment and management of chronic pain over the treatment of secondary depression for more effective treatment and better patient outcomes.