The European Pain Federation (EFIC) is a multidisciplinary professional organization dedicated to promoting research, education, and clinical excellence in the field of pain management. It was founded in 1993 and has since grown to become one of the leading pain organizations in Europe.

Key objectives of EFIC include:

  • Advancing Pain Research: EFIC supports and encourages research initiatives in pain science to improve our understanding of pain mechanisms, pain assessment, and pain treatment.
  • Education and Training: The federation aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers through educational programs, workshops, and conferences.
  • Promotion of Best Practices: EFIC advocates for evidence-based and multidisciplinary approaches to pain management, fostering collaborations between different healthcare specialties and organizations.
  • Raising Awareness: The organization strives to increase public and professional awareness of pain-related issues, including pain prevention, treatment, and access to care.
  • Policy Advocacy: EFIC actively engages with policymakers and health authorities at the European level to influence policies and promote the recognition of pain as a significant healthcare issue.

One of EFIC’s flagship events is the biennial European Pain Congress, which gathers pain specialists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across Europe and beyond. The congress provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge, the presentation of cutting-edge research, and discussions on the latest advancements in pain management.

The federation also publishes the European Journal of Pain, a scientific journal that features research articles, reviews, and case studies related to pain and its management.

EFIC collaborates with various national and international pain organizations, such as the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP), to address global pain-related challenges and to promote international cooperation in pain research and management.