Issues relevant to more precise definition of pain syndromes are identified. Previous research approaches to the definition of clinical pain groupings or syndromes are examined. Emphasis is placed on the importance of matching definition of the clinical pain sample under study with the specific research question(s) being addressed. Problems inherent in the study of cancer and low back pain groups are discussed in detail. Conceptual and methodological issues related to definition of pain populations and methods for their comparison, utilizing McGill Pain Questionnaire data, are examined and suggestions for future research are offered.
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