Story perspectives

ADHD Traits 2.4× More Common in Chronic Pain Patients

4/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dr. Satoshi Kasahara of the University of Tokyo Hospital led a study of nearly 1,000 chronic-pain patients that found ADHD traits were about 2.4 times more common than in the general population.
Higher ADHD traits correlated with greater pain severity, anxiety, depression, and negative pain-related thoughts.
Researchers propose screening for ADHD traits and using cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and psychoeducation to improve outcomes, with interventional studies planned.

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Story summary

Dr. Satoshi Kasahara of the University of Tokyo Hospital led a study of nearly 1,000 chronic-pain patients that found ADHD traits were about 2.4 times more common than in the general population.
Higher ADHD traits correlated with greater pain severity, anxiety, depression, and negative pain-related thoughts.
Researchers propose screening for ADHD traits and using cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and psychoeducation to improve outcomes, with interventional studies planned.