Chronic Pain Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Product (Drugs and Devices), By Indication (Neuropathic Pain, Arthritis Pain, Chronic Back Pain, Cancer Pain and Others), By Application (Musculoskeletal, Neuropathy, Oncology, and Others), By Distribution Channel, and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031

Chronic Pain Market Size

The global Chronic Pain Market size was valued at USD 77.79 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 81.41 billion in 2024 to USD 117.37 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.36% during the forecast period. In the scope of work, the report includes solutions offered by companies such as Eli Lilly and Company, Dickinson and Company, Medtronic plc, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, AstraZeneca PLC, Becton, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Sanofi, Pfizer Inc., and others.

The market is witnessing substantial growth due to technological innovations in pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Growing awareness regarding chronic pain conditions and an aging population are key factors supporting market expansion. Personalized medicine and digital health solutions are expanding treatment options and fostering market growth globally.

The chronic pain market is experiencing significant growth, largely attributed to increasing awareness and prevalence of chronic pain conditions globally. Key factors such as advancements in medical technology, an expanding geriatric population, and rising healthcare expenditures are further propelling market growth. Innovations in pharmaceuticals, medical devices such as neuromodulation systems, and digital health solutions are transforming treatment approaches.

In addition, personalized medicine strategies, supported by genetic testing and biomarker identification, are enhancing therapeutic effectiveness. Ongoing research, strategic collaborations, and patient-centric initiatives are supporting market expansion, aiming to provide effective pain relief and improve overall patient outcomes.

Chronic pain refers to persistent pain that lastbeyond the normal time required for tissue healing, usually lasting for three months or longer. It can arise due to conditions such as arthritis, back pain, or neuropathy, impacting physical function, mental health, and overall quality of life. Management often involves a multidisciplinary approach combining medications, physical therapy, and psychological interventions.

The impact of chronic pain varies widely among individuals, influencing their daily activities and social interactions. Effective treatment aims to alleviate symptoms,  address underlying causes, improve function, and enhance well-being for those affected by this challenging condition.

Analyst’s Review

The growth of the chronic pain market is facilitated by the increasing prevalence of conditions such as osteoarthritis and chronic spontaneous urticaria, along with significant advancements in drug development and funding.

• For instance, Brixton Biosciences' recent raise of USD 33 million to advance its Neural Ice pain management platform exemplifies the substantial investment fueling innovation.

Additionally, Novartis' Phase III data confirming the sustained efficacy and long-term safety of oral remibrutinib in chronic spontaneous urticaria highlights the importance of drug approvals in market growth. These factors such as rising prevalence, robust funding, and successful drug approval are collectively propelling advancements and expansion in the chronic pain treatment market landscape.

Chronic Pain Market Growth Factors

The increasing prevalence of chronic conditions among an aging global population is a significant factor propelling the growth of the chronic pain market. As more individuals experience conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and neuropathy, there is an increased demand for effective pain management solutions. This demand stimulates innovation in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and therapeutic approaches tailored to address diverse pain types and patient preferences.

Moreover, advancements in medical technology and a growing focus on personalized medicine are enhancing treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. The expanding adoption of integrative and non-pharmacological therapies further broadens the market by offering complementary approaches to pain relief, catering to the increasing healthcare needs of an aging population globally.

• According to the CDC, in 2021, approximately 20.9% of U.S. adults (51.6 million people) experienced chronic pain, and 6.9% (17.1 million people) suffered from high-impact chronic pain, which significantly restricts daily activities. The prevalence was notably higher among non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native adults, bisexual individuals, and those who were divorced or separated.

Chronic pain remains a complex issue for which no singular cure exists. A major challenge is to develop comprehensive and sustainable pain management solutions that alleviate symptoms and target the underlying causes, thereby enhancing patients' quality of life. This ongoing challenge spurs continuous innovation in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and therapeutic approaches aimed at providing personalized and effective treatments.

Key players in the chronic pain market are implementing multifaceted strategies to address the ongoing challenge of developing effective and sustainable solutions for patients. These strategies include substantial investments in research and development to innovate new pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and therapies.

Moreover, there is a strong emphasis on personalized medicine, which utilizes genetic testing and biomarker identification to tailor treatments to individual patient needs. Integration of digital health technologies such as telemedicine and wearable devices is enhancing remote monitoring and personalized care.

Chronic Pain Market Trends

The integration of innovative technologies such as minimally invasive surgical procedures, neuromodulation devices, and digital pain management tools is contributing significantly to the growth of the chronic pain market. These advancements offer more targeted and effective treatment options, catering to the diverse needs of patients with chronic pain conditions.

Minimally invasive surgeries reduce recovery times and improve patient outcomes, while neuromodulation devices provide non-pharmacological pain relief through precise nerve stimulation. Digital tools enable remote monitoring, personalized treatment plans, and enhanced patient engagement, thereby optimizing care delivery. These technological innovations are boosting market expansion by improving treatment efficacy, enhancing patient satisfaction, and driving adoption among both healthcare providers and patients.

• For instance, in December 2023, Forever Cheer, a pharmaceutical company with over 10 global patents, selected Hong Kong as the gateway for the global launch of its innovative pain management drugs. By initiating this launch from Hong Kong, the company aims to expand its reach worldwide and make a significant impact on the healthcare industry.

Increased public awareness regarding chronic pain and its treatment options is a key factor propelling market growth in the pain management sector. As awareness of he diverse therapies grows among individuals, there is a rise in the demand for pain management products and services. This increased awareness fosters earlier diagnosis and intervention, leading to more proactive healthcare seeking behaviors among patients.

Healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies are incentivized to innovate and expand their offerings to cater to this expanding market. This is resulting in a widespread adoption of pain relief solutions, including advanced pharmaceuticals, minimally invasive procedures, and holistic therapies, thereby augmenting market expansion and improving outcomes for patients suffering from chronic pain.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market is segmented based on product, indication, application, distribution channel, and geography.

By Product

Based on product, the chronic pain market is categorized into drugs and devices. The drugs segment garnered the highest revenue of USD 67.53 billion in 2023. This growth is attributable to rising prevalence of conditions such as arthritis and lower back pain.

Pharmaceutical advancements continuously introduce new analgesics and pain management drugs, including opioids, NSAIDs, and topical treatments, to cater to diverse pain types. Multimodal pain management approaches, which integrate pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, further boost segmental growth by enhancing treatment effectiveness.

Additionally, increased healthcare spending and improved access to healthcare services globally support segmental expansion. These factors underscore the crucial role of drugs in meeting patient needs and advancing pain management strategies worldwide.

By Indication

Based on indication, the market is divided into neuropathic pain, arthritis pain, chronic back pain, cancer pain, migraine, fibromyalgia, and others. The chronic back pain segment captured the largest chronic pain market share of 21.87% in 2023. This notable expansion is fueled by its widespread prevalence globally and increasing patient demand for effective treatments.

Advances in medical technology, such as minimally invasive procedures and diagnostic imaging, contribute significantly to enhancing treatment precision and expanding therapeutic options. Multidisciplinary approaches that integrate pharmaceuticals, physical therapy, and complementary therapies optimize outcomes by addressing the complex nature of back pain.

Moreover, rising healthcare expenditures and improved access to specialized care bolster segmental expansion by facilitating timely diagnosis and comprehensive management. 

By Application

Based on application, the market is categorized into musculoskeletal, neuropathy, oncology, and others. The oncology segment is expected to garner the highest revenue of USD 59.16 billion by 2031, primarily due to the increasing prevalence of cancer-related pain and the complexities of pain management in oncology settings.

Cancer treatments often induce pain as a side effect or post-treatment complication, highlighting the need for specialized pain management approaches. Advances in oncology treatments and supportive care have led to the development of targeted pain relief therapies tailored to cancer patients' needs, such as opioid analgesics and adjuvant medications.

Multidisciplinary approaches that incorporate pharmacological interventions with psychosocial support further enhance patient comfort and quality of life. This growth is further supported by rising healthcare investments and growing focus on improving cancer care outcomes globally.

Chronic Pain Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

The North America chronic pain market share stood around 35.29% in 2023 in the global market, with a valuation of USD 27.45 billion. Advanced healthcare infrastructure and specialized pain clinics contribute to enhanced diagnosis and treatment options by utilizing cutting-edge technologies and minimally invasive procedures. Supportive healthcare policies and reimbursement systems further bolster regional market growth by facilitating access to comprehensive pain care.

With a growing focus on innovation and improving chronic disease management, North America remains at the forefront of advancing treatments that cater to the diverse needs of chronic pain patients.

Asia-Pacific is anticipated to witness the highest growth at a CAGR of 7.26% over the forecast period. This expansion is propelled by demographic shifts, including a growing aging population prone to conditions such as arthritis. Improvements in healthcare infrastructure and accessibility are enhancing diagnosis and treatment capabilities, supported by advancements in diagnostic technologies and modern pain management techniques.

The region's rising adoption of both Western and traditional medicine approaches provides a diverse array of treatment options, catering to varied patient needs. Economic growth and rising healthcare expenditures further facilitate access to advanced pain management therapies, thereby fostering domestic market expansion.

Competitive Landscape

The chronic pain market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Companies are implementing impactful strategic initiatives, such as expanding services, investing in research and development (R&D), establishing new service delivery centers, and optimizing their service delivery processes, which are likely to create new opportunities for market growth.

List of Key Companies in Chronic Pain Market

• Eli Lilly and Company
• Dickinson and Company
• Medtronic plc
• Johnson & Johnson
• Novartis AG
• AstraZeneca PLC
• Becton
• Bristol-Myers Squibb Company
• Sanofi
• Pfizer Inc.

Key Industry Development

• August 2023 (Partnership): MOBE and Override, two digital health innovators, partnered to launch a shared savings program for chronic pain management. The program aims to offer a personalized approach to pain treatment and reduce healthcare costs by utilizing data analytics and behavioral health coaching.

The global chronic pain market is segmented as:

By Product

• Drugs
• Devices

By Indication

• Neuropathic Pain
• Arthritis Pain
• Chronic Back Pain
• Cancer Pain
• Migraine
• Fibromyalgia
• Others

By Application

• Musculoskeletal
• Neuropathy
• Oncology
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • U.K.
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America