Conceptualizing and treating the polytrauma clinical triad as a complex chronic pain syndrome - Takeaways - MDSpire

Reframing the Polytrauma Clinical Triad as a Multifaceted Chronic Pain Disorder: Approaches to Treatment

  • By

  • Ajay Manhapra

  • Eamonn Kennedy

  • David Cifu

  • Shannon R. Miles

  • Mary Jo Pugh

  • July 17, 2026

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  • 1

    The polytrauma clinical triad (PCT) includes PTSD, chronic pain syndromes, and traumatic brain injury, affecting many US Service Members and Veterans.

  • 2

    A significant portion of Veterans with PCT show declining health despite treatment, highlighting the need for improved management strategies.

  • 3

    The FREIDEM model conceptualizes PCT as a complex chronic pain syndrome, integrating biopsychosocial factors impacting recovery.

  • 4

    Current care models for PCT are fragmented, lacking unified interdisciplinary approaches to manage the complex comorbidities effectively.

  • 5

    There is a need for a comprehensive interdisciplinary biopsychosocial care model to enhance treatment delivery for patients with PCT.

Original Source(s)

Conceptualizing and treating the polytrauma clinical triad as a complex chronic pain syndrome

  • by Ajay Manhapra, Eamonn Kennedy, David Cifu, Shannon R. Miles, Mary Jo Pugh

  • July 17, 2026

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