International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Corrective Exercise Practice Test

Acute pain is characterized by its sudden onset and typically lasts for a short duration, ranging from a few days to a few weeks. This type of pain often results from a specific injury or event, such as surgery, trauma, or an acute illness. It serves as a crucial signal from the body, alerting individuals to potential harm, prompting them to take protective action or seek medical attention if necessary.

Chronic pain, on the other hand, persists for a longer period, often defined as pain lasting more than three to six months and may not always be associated with a clear cause. Intermittent pain refers to discomfort that comes and goes, not necessarily tied to a specific timeframe. Recurring pain indicates that pain occurs repeatedly over time without being constant.

Understanding these distinctions is essential for implementing appropriate corrective exercise strategies and managing client expectations regarding their recovery or rehabilitation process.