Katja Groleger Sršen
URI Soča, Univerzitetni rehabilitacijski inštitut Republike Slovenije, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Barbara Horvat Rauter
URI Soča, Univerzitetni rehabilitacijski inštitut Republike Slovenije, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

Background: Chronic non-cancer pain in children and adolescents is a complex health challenge, defined as pain lasting at least three months and significantly affecting daily activities, cognition, emotions, and behavior. It is recognized as a primary pain type in ICD-11 (2019) and affects about 21% of children and adolescents worldwide, with 1.7–5% experi-encing severe forms. Materials and Methods: This review summarizes current literature on the prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and multidisciplinary therapeutic strategies. Results: Risk factors include female sex, adolescence, elevated BMI, genetic predisposition, psychological factors, family history of chronic pain, and lower socioeconomic status. The most common pain types are headaches and musculoskeletal pain, followed by general pain and back pain. Slovenian data show correlations between anxiety/depression symptoms and pain, with additional risks linked to parental separation, family conflicts, and peer violence. Conclusions: Chronic pain in children requires a biopsychosocial approach with multidisciplinary team management. Early recognition is crucial to prevent long-term consequences, as 80% of adults with chronic pain report symptom onset in childhood. Integrated care involving physicians, psychologists, physiotherapists, and family support is essential for optimal outcomes.

Key words: child, chronic pain; aetiology, diagnosis, multi-disciplinary therapy