If you’ve ever used ChatGPT for advice, you’re definitely not alone. About 1 in 4 Americans report using AI chat tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini for everyday guidance or help, from choosing recipes to troubleshooting technology, according to a 2025 Pew Research Center survey (Pew Research Center, Public Awareness and Use of Artificial Intelligence, 2025).
As more people turn to AI, it's becoming common to look up symptoms, research treatment options, and gain a better understanding of medical issues before seeing a doctor.
In fact, when OpenAI launched ChatGPT Health features in January, the company reported that millions of users accessed health-related guidance within the first 24 hours. That’s how quickly people are turning to AI for answers to their medical questions (OpenAI product announcement, ChatGPT Health feature launch, 2025).
For those with chronic pain, these tools offer a convenient first stop between appointments. While AI can help, it’s essential to know its role in care and when to consult your doctor.
Recently, Commonwealth Pain & Spine pain co-founder and medical director Dr. Kyle Young answered common questions that patients are asking about AI and chronic pain care and shared how these tools can be used safely and effectively.
When AI Can Be a Good Starting Point
AI tools can be useful for learning about possible causes of pain, common treatments, and questions to ask during a medical visit. Patients who do a little research ahead of time often feel more confident and prepared when they meet with their physician.
As Dr. Young explains, AI can play a helpful role when used responsibly. “AI is a good resource for basic education," he says. "It can open the door for better conversations with physicians.”
Coming to an appointment with a clearer understanding of your symptoms or treatment options can help you get more out of the visit. It may also help you feel more comfortable discussing next steps or asking about alternatives you may not have known about before.
Learning from AI is helpful, but it’s only one step in chronic pain management. Your doctor’s guidance remains essential.
Why AI Can’t Replace Your Doctor
Chronic pain is rarely straightforward. Treatment decisions often depend on imaging results, past procedures, medication history, physical exam findings, and how someone has responded to treatments over time.
While AI tools provide general knowledge they can’t evaluate your unique situation or tailor treatment to your needs. “We're not there yet. AI is really good at sourcing internet data, but it does not have specific information about you,” says Dr. Young. “And lot of decision-making for chronic pain patients is nuanced.”
Pain management also involves many choices - from medications and injections to therapy options and procedures - and those decisions are often nuanced. Physicians consider the full picture before recommending a plan, something technology alone can’t do.
The Risk of Relying on AI for Chronic Pain Care Advice
Dr. Young warns that patients may delay care if they rely on AI for pain management. “Relying on AI medical advice could prolong a patient going and seeing their physician and delay appropriate diagnosis and treatment,” he says.
When pain sticks around or starts interfering with everyday activities, getting evaluated sooner rather than later by a doctor in the office can make a big difference. Waiting too long can mean more time in pain and sometimes fewer treatment options.
Another concern is people trying treatments they’ve read about that may not actually fit their specific condition. What helps one type of pain may not help (and could even make things worse) for another.
AI is useful for information, but a doctor provides diagnosis and treatment. Always consult a professional for your care.
How AI Is Helping Doctors
Interestingly, AI is already playing a role in healthcare behind the scenes.
Many practices now use AI-assisted documentation tools that help summarize visits and organize medical records. This means doctors can spend less time typing and more time focusing on patients during appointments.
Looking ahead, AI may help physicians analyze medical data or identify treatment patterns, but experts agree that these tools are meant to support doctors, not replace them. With this in mind, let’s talk about when it’s time to reach out for medical advice.
When to Talk to Your Doctor About Chronic Pain
If pain is persistent, getting worse, or keeping you from doing normal activities, it’s time to speak with a pain specialist. A proper evaluation can help identify the cause of the pain and guide you toward the right treatment plan.
AI can help you prepare and ask better questions, but only a doctor can personalize your treatment and help you achieve lasting relief.
To hear more from Dr. Kyle Young on how AI fits into chronic pain care, watch the full video above.
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