Pain is a common problem in patients with chronic wounds. This article discusses a systematised approach to address and manage wound-related pain. The impact of psychological factors on pain is often overlooked. Substantial evidence indicates that the more anxiety patients experience from anticipation, the higher their levels of pain during dressing changes. Anxiety as a psychological stress can trigger a cascade of physiological events that impair wound healing. Strategies to allay anxiety must be part of a comprehensive pain treatment plan.
