What characterizes acute pain compared to chronic pain?

Acute pain is characterized by its nature and duration, primarily distinguished by the fact that it typically resolves with healing. This type of pain generally arises suddenly in response to a specific injury or condition, such as a fracture or surgical procedure, and serves as a warning sign of tissue damage. Over time, as the underlying condition improves and healing occurs, the acute pain diminishes and generally resolves altogether.

In contrast, chronic pain persists for an extended period, often defined as lasting longer than six months, and can exist despite the absence of ongoing injury or healing. Chronic pain may be constant or intermittent but is fundamentally different in its purpose and the implications it has on a person's quality of life.

The tendency to be more severe, lasting longer than six months, or being constant are not definitive characteristics of acute pain, which is distinct from chronic pain in these aspects. Therefore, the resolution of acute pain with healing is a key defining feature that distinguishes it from chronic pain.