The Impact of Chronic Pain on the Functional Wellbeing of Rural Residents

Chronic pain affects about one in five U.S. adults and is linked to diminished quality of life, impaired social functioning, and increased risk for depression and opioid use disorder. Our prior research found chronic pain prevalence is significantly higher among rural adults (29%) compared to urban adults (21%), even after adjusting for risk factors. However, little is known about how chronic pain impacts overall health and functioning in rural populations. Using the 2020, 2021, and 2023 National Health Interview Survey, this study will examine rural-urban differences in: Pain-related functional impairment; quality of life and health behaviors; and, use of pain treatments, including opioids and non-pharmacological therapies

We expect rural residents to experience greater impairment and rely more on opioids due to limited access to non-medication treatments.