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Acute

By , About.com Guide

Updated March 27, 2005

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Definition:

Acute is a word used to describe an injury or illness that comes and goes (as opposed to chronic, which is persistent).

Acute injuries come on quickly, have very definite symptoms which can be quite intense, and heal in a relatively brief period of time.

Often, and unfortunately, acute injuries to the back or neck can be the precursor to chronic pain.

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