This article reviews current models of neuropathic pain and relates recent research in the neurobiology of pain to improved understanding of psychiatric and psychological aspects and treatment of chronic aspects of pain. Some of the anomalies associated with beliefs about chronic pain are also outlined. In particular, the notion that pain is either verifiable or due to psychiatric disturbance is laid to rest; the onus is on the clinician to understand and treat the patient with sensitivity, rather than on the patient to provide proof of pain.