Pain and Genetics: Dr. Jordan Sudberg Explores If Chronic Pain Runs in the Family
Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide — and for many, it’s more than just a personal struggle. It’s something they’ve seen in their parents, grandparents, or siblings. This often raises an important question: Is chronic pain hereditary?
According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a leading pain management specialist with years of clinical experience, the relationship between genetics and chronic pain is both complex and fascinating. While not all chronic pain is inherited, certain conditions and predispositions can be passed down, increasing the likelihood that some individuals will experience long-term pain.
In this article, we’ll break down the science behind pain and genetics, and share Dr. Sudberg’s insights on how understanding your family history can help you manage — and possibly prevent — chronic pain.
Understanding Chronic Pain: What Are the Roots?
Chronic pain is typically defined as pain lasting longer than 12 weeks, and it can stem from a variety of sources:
- Injury or surgery
- Inflammation and autoimmune disorders
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Musculoskeletal issues (like arthritis or fibromyalgia)
- Psychological or emotional stress
While lifestyle, environment, and injuries are common triggers, Dr. Jordan Sudberg explains that genetic factors may influence how pain is perceived, processed, and tolerated.
“Genetics can play a role in how your nervous system responds to pain, how quickly you heal, and whether you’re prone to certain painful conditions,” says Dr. Sudberg.
Can Chronic Pain Be Passed Down Genetically?
The short answer: Yes — in some cases.
While pain itself isn’t a genetic condition, many of the underlying causes of chronic pain have hereditary components. These include:
Arthritis
Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis often run in families. Genetic variations can influence how cartilage breaks down or how the immune system functions.
Fibromyalgia
While the exact cause is still unclear, studies suggest a genetic predisposition to fibromyalgia. Individuals with close relatives who have fibromyalgia are more likely to develop it themselves.
Migraine and Headache Disorders
Chronic migraines often have a strong familial link, with certain genetic mutations contributing to increased pain sensitivity and neurological responses.
Pain Sensitivity
Research also points to genes that regulate how we perceive and tolerate pain — including how pain signals are transmitted to the brain.
“We’ve seen that two patients with the same injury can report very different levels of pain,” Dr. Sudberg notes. “Part of that difference may come down to genetics.”
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Still Matter
Even if chronic pain runs in your family, it doesn’t mean you’re destined to suffer from it. Genes load the gun, but environment pulls the trigger.
Dr. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes the role of lifestyle factors in the development and management of chronic pain:
- Poor posture or ergonomics
- Physical inactivity
- Chronic stress or anxiety
- Sleep deprivation
- Poor diet and hydration
“You may inherit a risk, but what you do with your body day-to-day can either activate or protect against that risk,” says Dr. Sudberg.
How to Take Control if Chronic Pain Runs in Your Family
If you have a family history of chronic pain, being proactive is key. Here are Dr. Sudberg’s top tips:
Know Your Family History
Ask relatives about any chronic conditions they’ve experienced. Understanding the patterns can help your doctor identify risks early.
Adopt Healthy Habits Early
Regular exercise, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and stress management techniques can reduce your risk, even if you’re genetically predisposed.
Stay Ahead with Preventive Care
Routine check-ups, physical therapy, and early intervention can make a major difference in managing symptoms before they become chronic.
Talk to a Specialist
Pain management experts like Dr. Jordan Sudberg can create personalized prevention or treatment plans based on your unique health profile and genetic background.
Conclusion: Genetics Isn’t Destiny — But It’s a Clue
While chronic pain may have a hereditary component, it doesn’t define your future. Understanding your genetic risk allows you to take smart, proactive steps to manage — and possibly prevent — long-term discomfort.
With expert guidance from specialists like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, patients can learn how to take control of their health, minimize risk factors, and improve quality of life — regardless of their family history.
