Chronic Pain Management in HIV-Infected Populations

Chronic pain affects a substantial proportion of people living with HIV, arising from a combination of HIV-associated neuropathy, antiretroviral therapy sequelae, persistent inflammation and co‐morbid conditions. This complex pain picture contributes to impaired function, reduced quality of life and challenges in adherence to treatment. Management strategies encompass pharmacological approaches—including tailored use of analgesics and careful monitoring of drug–drug interactions—alongside non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive–behavioural therapy, physiotherapy and peer support. Recent emphasis has fallen on addressing underlying psychosocial drivers, such as depression, anxiety and stigma, which both exacerbate pain and hinder self-management. Integration of multidisciplinary care within HIV clinics and community settings, as well as the development of low-barrier, trauma-informed and harm-reduction frameworks, is key to improving outcomes globally. Emerging telehealth models offer promise for remote delivery of behavioural pain management, particularly in contexts where in-person services are limited or stigma prevails.

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Chronic Pain Management in HIV-Infected Populations publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in chronic pain management in hiv-infected populations across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Chronic pain: Persistent or recurrent pain lasting longer than three months.

Neuropathic pain: Pain arising from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system, often described as burning or tingling.

Nociceptive pain: Pain resulting from tissue injury or inflammation, typically sharp or aching.

Antiretroviral therapy: Combination of medicines used to control HIV replication and preserve immune function.

Psychosocial factors: Interactions between psychological and social elements, such as depression or stigma, that influence health outcomes.

Telehealth: Delivery of health care services via digital communication technologies, including video consultations.

References

1. Prevalence, correlates, and quality-of-life outcomes of major or persistent pain among women living with HIV in Metro Vancouver, Canada. Harm Reduction Journal (2024).
2. 2017 HIV Medicine Association of Infectious Diseases Society of America Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Chronic Pain in Patients Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Clinical Infectious Diseases (2017).
3. Development of a tailored, telehealth intervention to address chronic pain and heavy drinking among people with HIV infection: integrating perspectives of patients in HIV care. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice (2019).
4. Factors associated with current and severe pain among people living with HIV: results from a statewide sample. BMC Public Health (2020).