General Guideline Principles for Definition of
Non-Acute Pain for workers compensation patients

The New York State workers compensation board has developed these guidelines to help physicians, podiatrists, and other healthcare professionals provide appropriate treatment for Definition of Non-Acute Pain.

These Workers Compensation Board guidelines are intended to assist healthcare professionals in making decisions regarding the appropriate level of care for their patients with ankle and foot disorders. The guidelines are not a substitute for clinical judgement or professional experience. The ultimate decision regarding care must be made by the patient in consultation with his or her healthcare provider.

Definition of Non-Acute Pain

By definition, pain is “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience typically connected with existing or potential tissue damage or described in terms of such damage,” according to the International Association for the Study of Pain. A precipitating event is typically connected to acute pain (e.g., trauma or surgery).

Since it can guard against potentially harmful tissue damage, the pain symptom is frequently physiologically advantageous. A continuum of pain from acute to non-acute is possible. Concerns about biopsychosocial factors become more important as chronic pain is documented.

When a patient reports enduring pain that lasts past the expected recovery time and resulting in concomitant functional limits, it is recognised that a biopsychosocial process called non-acute pain has occurred.

A diagnosis of non-acute pain should be considered if:

• According to the history, physical examination, special tests (if clinically necessary), and treatment, pain has persisted longer than the time that should have passed for healing and recovery.
• For injuries not covered by an existing Medical Therapy Guideline, the standard of care for that injury, or for pain that has not responded to prior suitable treatment (i.e., diagnostic and therapeutic modalities suggested in the existing Medical Treatment Guidelines).
• Even after reevaluating the original diagnosis and taking into account alternate diagnoses, the pain persists (es).
• Despite the apparent recovery of the underlying disease, there is significant objectively recorded functional impairment in addition to the pain (i.e., there has been a large change from the pre-injury functional baseline).

What our office can do if you have workers compensation injuries

We have the experience to help you with their workers compensation injuries. We understand what you are going through and will meet your medical needs and follow the guidelines set by the New York State Workers Compensation Board.

We understand the importance of your workers compensation cases. Let us help you navigate through the maze of dealing with the workers compensation insurance company and your employer.

We understand that this is a stressful time for you and your family. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us so we will do everything we can to make it as easy on you as possible.