Chronic Persistent Pain in Victims of Torture

SUMMARY

Objectives: To introduce the concept of torture, its forms, its sequele, and its treatment.

Findings: Torture involves pain and suffering intentionally inflicted upon a person for the purpose of coercing a confession, collecting information, punishing an action, or intimidation. Typically, it is perpetrated with the consent of a public official. Its aim is to destroy the person's individuality by beating, hanging, burning, and/or psychological assault. Long-term physical and psychological sequelae require treatment whose cornerstone is trust.

Conclusions: Torture is the worst violation of human rights known to man. It persists because of its political power. Research is needed to prevent torture and to help its victims.

KEYWORDS:

• Torture
• political power
• falanga
• rehabilitation