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• Chronic health issues >> Chronic Pain >> Age 41-60 >> Interview CP29 >> Explains that he is always hoping that surgery will cure his back pain even if deep down he knows it is unlikely.

Back pain since, 1990. Surgery: Discectomy 1990, Discectomy 1991, Spinal stabilisation 1997, Bone fusion 2003. Treatment: Epidural steroid injections. TENS. Pain management: Going on Expert Patient Programme. Current medication: morphine, codeine, tramadol. Past Medication: fentanyl.

• Chronic health issues >> Chronic Pain >> Age 41-60 >> Interview CP31 >> Was pinning her hopes on surgery and was horrified when it wasn't an option although now realises that surgery is not always helpful.

Low back pain following injury at work, 1991. Current medication: celocoxib (Celebrex) Past medication: other anti-inflammatory.

• Chronic health issues >> Chronic Pain >> Interview CP49 >> A doctor explains that acute pain acts as a warning system but with chronic pain the pain system becomes sensitised.

• Chronic health issues >> Chronic Pain >> Interview CP49 >> A doctor explains that the emotional parts of the brain can directly affect the pain system.