Pain management care continues to evolve at a remarkable pace, driven by breakthrough innovations in minimally invasive procedures, advanced neuromodulation techniques, regenerative medicine, and evidence-based interdisciplinary approaches. In 2026, the field stands at an exciting crossroads where cutting-edge technology meets compassionate patient care, offering renewed hope for millions living with chronic pain conditions.
For healthcare professionals dedicated to staying at the forefront of these advances, continuing education through professional conferences remains essential. These gatherings serve as vital forums where leading experts share groundbreaking research, demonstrate innovative techniques, and facilitate meaningful discussions about clinical best practices. Whether you’re a pain management specialist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or another healthcare provider in the field, attending these conferences provides invaluable opportunities to enhance your clinical expertise and ultimately deliver superior patient outcomes.
The year 2026 promises an exceptional lineup of conferences spanning the United States and internationally, each offering unique perspectives on the latest developments in pain care. From intimate regional gatherings to major international congresses, these events cater to diverse learning preferences and professional development goals. Many conferences also welcome patients and caregivers, recognizing that informed individuals play a crucial role in their own healthcare journeys.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the most significant pain management conferences scheduled for 2026, complete with dates, locations, and details to help you plan your professional development calendar.
Major U.S. Pain Management Conferences
Cleveland Clinic Pain Management Symposium 2026
Dates: To be announced (typically held in February or March)
Location: To be announced
Organizer: Cleveland Clinic Department of Pain Management, Center for Continuing Education
Website: clevelandclinicmeded.com
The Cleveland Clinic Pain Management Symposium represents one of the most respected pain medicine education programs in the nation. This dynamic multi-day symposium typically spans five days and focuses on in-depth reviews and analyses of recent advances in pain medicine and related healthcare. The practice of pain medicine continues to evolve due to therapeutic advances, healthcare reform, financial considerations, and the ongoing impact of the opioid crisis.
The symposium promotes a better understanding of the pathophysiology of acute and chronic pain, enhances knowledge regarding a broad range of pain conditions, and critically reviews novel state-of-the-art interventional and non-interventional techniques. A renowned faculty provides insightful assessment and clinical practice evaluation of current evidence-based guidelines for cervical spine procedures, infection control, and corticosteroid use.
Optional educational activities typically include problem-based learning discussions, special sessions for advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants, and hands-on cadaver workshops on interventional pain management techniques. Live ultrasound-guided workshops covering upper and lower extremity blocks, truncal procedures, and relevant pain procedures are offered to practicing physicians and fellows in training.
AAPM PainConnect 2026
Dates: March 5-8, 2026
Location: Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City, Utah
Organizer: American Academy of Pain Medicine (AAPM)
Website: painmed.org
PainConnect 2026 represents the premier multidisciplinary event in pain medicine, bringing together thought leaders, clinicians, researchers, and innovators for four days of intensive learning and networking. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains at the luxurious Grand America Hotel, this annual gathering is specifically designed to move the specialty forward through collaborative engagement.
The conference features expertly curated education across multiple disciplines, tailored to address both current clinical challenges and future breakthroughs. Attendees can earn CME, CPE (for pharmacists), and APA continuing education credits through dynamic, interactive workshops and evidence-based programming. The event emphasizes practical applications, from policy insights and hands-on training to real-world strategies for managing complex pain cases.
Whether you’re a seasoned expert or new to the field, PainConnect 2026 offers comprehensive content spanning interventional techniques, pharmacological management, behavioral approaches, and emerging technologies in pain medicine. The conference provides exceptional opportunities to connect with peers and pioneers through robust networking sessions and collaborative events, while exploring the latest research and technologies that are redefining treatment paradigms and patient outcomes.
USASP 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting
Dates: March 23-26, 2026
Location: Loews Philadelphia Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Organizer: U.S. Association for the Study of Pain (USASP)
Website: usasp.org
The USASP Annual Scientific Meeting brings together researchers, clinicians, advocates, and leaders in partnerships designed to advance understanding and ultimately reduce the burden of chronic pain in muscles and joints in the United States. The 2026 meeting at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel offers easy access to iconic landmarks, historic sites, and excellent dining options, making it perfect for networking between sessions.
The conference features interactive sessions designed to spark collaboration and provide lifelong learning opportunities. Keynote speakers include Cameron, a college freshman and chronic pain advocate who will deliver a presentation titled “Empathy, Resilience & Creativity as Tools of Resistance in the Fight for Pain Relief: Perspectives from a Person Living with Chronic Pain.” The meeting offers early-bird registration and special group discounts to maximize accessibility.
This multidisciplinary event welcomes all professionals committed to improving the lives of those affected by chronic pain, including physicians, researchers, psychologists, physical therapists, nurses, and patient advocates. The conference emphasizes evidence-based approaches and fosters meaningful dialogue between basic scientists, clinical researchers, and practitioners.
Mayo Clinic Clinical Updates in Pain Medicine 2026
Dates: April 16-18, 2026
Location: Opal Sol Resort, Clearwater, Florida
Organizer: Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development
Website: ce.mayo.edu
This comprehensive course addresses pain conditions across multiple medical disciplines, aiming to enhance pain management and improve patient outcomes. Through a structured series of lectures, participants explore the full spectrum of chronic pain treatment, including pharmacologic therapies, non-pharmacologic approaches, and interventional procedures.
The program includes presentations focusing on strategies for perioperative and inpatient pain management, offering practical insights for immediate clinical application. The curriculum delves into the evaluation and treatment of common comorbidities associated with chronic pain, such as central sensitization, depression, and anxiety, with particular emphasis on cognitive behavioral therapy. An in-depth review of prevalent pain syndromes covers spine pain, neuropathic pain, headache, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
The conference is designed for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, residents, fellows, and allied health professionals working in primary care, family medicine, pain management, hospital medicine, palliative care, anesthesiology, and other specialties involved in pain evaluation and treatment. The program is jointly accredited by the ACCME, ACPE, and American Nurses Credentialing Center.
WIPM 2026 Annual Conference
Dates: June 5-7, 2026
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Organizer: The Society of Women Innovators in Pain Management
Website: wipmsoc.org
The Society of Women Innovators in Pain Management’s 2026 Annual Conference, themed “Brilliance on Bourbon Street,” captures the vibrant spirit of New Orleans while focusing on the latest innovations and scientific advancements in pain medicine. Founded in 2019 to address the underrepresentation of women in pain management (women represent only 18% of all pain physicians), WIPM has become a vital voice for advancing women’s roles in the field.
The conference features a dynamic program with renowned speakers sharing invaluable experiences and cutting-edge research, fostering growth and collaboration within the field. The event aims to provide evidence-based insights to enhance the quality and accessibility of patient care across all levels of practice. Attendees will connect with peers, thought leaders, and industry pioneers from research, business, and healthcare sectors, gaining diverse perspectives on career development, innovation, and leadership in pain management.
The conference offers unique networking opportunities specifically designed to support and mentor women in pain medicine, though it welcomes all healthcare professionals committed to advancing the specialty. Interactive sessions, workshops, and panels address clinical excellence, research initiatives, leadership development, and work-life balance. This is an essential event for anyone interested in promoting diversity and excellence in pain management.
Harvard Medical School: 40th Annual Evaluation and Treatment of Pain Conference
Dates: June 29 – July 2, 2026
Location: Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel, Boston, Massachusetts
Organizer: Harvard Medical School Continuing Education (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center)
Website: learn.hms.harvard.edu
This comprehensive, expert-led course celebrates four decades of excellence in pain medicine education. Participants can attend either virtually or in person at the historic Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston’s Back Bay. The program addresses pain conditions across multiple medical disciplines with a structured series of lectures designed to enhance pain management skills and improve patient outcomes.
The curriculum explores the full spectrum of chronic pain treatment, including pharmacologic therapies, non-pharmacologic approaches, and interventional procedures. Special emphasis is placed on strategies for perioperative and inpatient pain management, offering practical insights for immediate clinical application. The course provides an in-depth review of prevalent pain syndromes including spine pain, neuropathic pain, headache, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
A significant focus is placed on evaluating and treating common comorbidities associated with chronic pain, such as central sensitization, depression, and anxiety, with particular emphasis on the role of cognitive behavioral therapy. The faculty comprises some of the most distinguished experts from Harvard Medical School’s teaching hospitals and leading institutions nationwide. Sessions also cover current guidelines for pediatric pain management and the benefits of yoga and other non-pharmacologic pain-relieving options.
PAINWeek 2026
Dates: September 8-11, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Organizer: PAINWeek
Website: painweek.org
PAINWeek remains the premier U.S. pain conference, distinguished by its most expansive curriculum and comprehensive educational offerings. This is the top destination for healthcare professionals eager to elevate their expertise in pain management. The 2026 edition promises to continue the tradition of providing diverse educational tracks accessible to both healthcare professionals and members of the public.
The conference covers a broad spectrum of topics including chronic pain management, pharmacotherapy, interventional techniques, and integrative approaches such as nutrition, acupuncture, and complementary therapies. PAINWeek’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that participants from various healthcare backgrounds, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and psychologists, find relevant and valuable content.
The extensive programming includes keynote presentations, breakout sessions, hands-on workshops, and poster presentations showcasing the latest research. Attendees can earn substantial CME credits while networking with thousands of colleagues in the vibrant Las Vegas setting. PAINWeek’s commitment to evidence-based education combined with practical clinical applications makes it an essential annual event for anyone involved in pain management.
ASRA Pain Medicine 25th Annual Pain Medicine Meeting
Dates: November 5-7, 2026
Location: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street and Marriott Tampa Water Street, Tampa, Florida
Organizer: American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA)
Website: asra.com
The 25th Annual Pain Medicine Meeting represents a quarter-century of excellence in pain medicine education. ASRA’s annual pain conference brings together specialists in chronic pain management, interventional pain techniques, and regional anesthesia to explore the latest advances in the field.
This meeting complements ASRA’s spring Regional Anesthesiology and Acute Pain Medicine Meeting by focusing specifically on chronic pain conditions and long-term management strategies. Attendees can expect comprehensive sessions on interventional techniques, medication management, neuromodulation, regenerative medicine approaches, and multidisciplinary pain care models.
The Tampa waterfront location provides an excellent setting for learning and networking, with easy access to the city’s attractions and dining options. ASRA’s commitment to evidence-based medicine and practical skill development ensures that participants gain knowledge they can immediately apply in their clinical practices. The meeting typically offers substantial CME credits and includes opportunities for hands-on learning and case-based discussions.
UC Davis 36th Annual Anesthesiology Update
Dates: March 20-22, 2026
Location: Silverado Resort, Napa Valley, California
Organizer: University of California Davis, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine
Website: health.ucdavis.edu/anesthesiology
Themed “Innovations in Anesthesia: Shaping the Future of Patient Care,” this weekend conference highlights the cutting-edge advancements transforming perioperative medicine. Designed for practicing anesthesiologists, pain specialists, and perioperative providers, the program features expert-led sessions on AI integration, enhanced recovery pathways, regional techniques, medicolegal considerations, and more.
The beautiful Silverado Resort in Napa Valley provides an ideal setting for this rejuvenating professional retreat. Interactive workshops, dynamic panel discussions, and opportunities to connect with leaders in the field make this a valuable educational experience. While the primary focus is anesthesiology, significant content addresses acute and chronic pain management, making it relevant for pain medicine specialists.
The UC Davis Anesthesiology Update has built a strong reputation over 35 years for delivering high-quality, evidence-based education in an accessible format. Early bird registration typically offers significant savings. The weekend format allows participants to balance learning with relaxation in California’s premier wine country.
Napa Pain Conference 2026
Dates: To be announced (typically held in August)
Location: Napa Valley, California
Organizer: Neurovations Education
Website: napapainconference.com
As California’s oldest pain management conference, the Napa Pain Conference has established itself as an innovative gathering that brings together leading experts in pain management and neuroscience. Known for its unique approach to medical education, NPC provides unparalleled networking opportunities with leaders in clinical practice, research, and industry.
The conference regularly attracts Nobel laureates, prominent medical specialty society leaders, and a multidisciplinary faculty of medical providers. NPC’s mission is “patient first education,” and the program works diligently to cultivate an exceptional faculty of researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers. The intimate setting allows for meaningful interactions and in-depth discussions on the latest pain treatment technologies.
Key themes typically include personalized pain management utilizing biomarkers, wearables, brain imaging, and data analytics, as well as neuromodulation techniques such as spinal cord stimulation and photobiomodulation. The conference also addresses critical topics like the relationship between chronic pain and the opioid epidemic, regenerative therapies, and the bioethics of pain management. World-class education combined with the stunning Napa Valley setting creates an unforgettable learning experience.
International Pain & Spine Intervention Society (IPSIS) Annual Meeting
Dates: September 23-26, 2026 (with additional workshops October 24-25, 2026)
Location: Washington, D.C. (Annual Meeting); New Orleans, Louisiana (Bio-Skills Labs)
Organizer: International Pain & Spine Intervention Society (formerly Spine Intervention Society)
Website: ipsismed.org
The IPSIS Annual Meeting serves as the premier gathering for physicians specializing in interventional spine and pain procedures. This organization, formerly known as the Spine Intervention Society, focuses specifically on evidence-based interventional techniques for diagnosing and treating spinal pain.
The conference features comprehensive programming on fluoroscopy-guided procedures, advanced imaging techniques, evidence-based practice guidelines, and the latest research in interventional spine care. IPSIS is known for its rigorous scientific approach and commitment to safety and efficacy in spinal interventions.
In addition to the main annual meeting, IPSIS offers specialized bio-skills labs in New Orleans (October 24-25, 2026) focusing on cervical procedures, disc and vertebral body access, and fluoroscopy-guided techniques. These hands-on cadaver workshops provide invaluable opportunities for physicians to refine their technical skills under expert guidance. The labs typically have limited enrollment to ensure personalized instruction and ample practice time.
Pacific Spine and Pain Society Annual Meeting 2026
Dates: October 15-17, 2026
Location: The Meritage, Napa Valley, California
Organizer: Pacific Spine and Pain Society (PSPS)
Website: pacificspineandpainsociety.com
The PSPS Annual Meeting represents the premier regional gathering for spine and pain medicine specialists on the West Coast. Set in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country at The Meritage resort, this conference features the latest research, clinical advances, and networking opportunities in spine and pain medicine.
The meeting brings together interventional pain physicians, spine surgeons, physiatrists, and allied health professionals for three days of intensive education and collaboration. Programming typically includes presentations on cutting-edge interventional techniques, emerging technologies in spine care, evidence-based treatment protocols, and multidisciplinary approaches to complex spine and pain conditions.
PSPS is known for its intimate setting that facilitates meaningful interactions between faculty and attendees. The conference provides ample opportunities for discussion, debate, and knowledge exchange in a collegial atmosphere. The Napa Valley location offers the perfect balance of professional development and relaxation, with world-class dining and wine experiences available in the surrounding region.
IASP 2026 World Congress on Pain
Dates: October 26-30, 2026
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Organizer: International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP)
Website: iasp-pain.org
The IASP World Congress on Pain is the premier global event in pain research and clinical care, held every two years. The 2026 edition in Bangkok brings together thousands of pain professionals from around the world for five days of comprehensive programming. The congress features more than 100 international exhibitors showcasing the latest advancements in pain management technology, pharmaceuticals, and clinical tools.
Topical workshops and plenary sessions present the cutting edge of pain management, research, and relief. The scientific program includes presentations from world-renowned researchers and clinicians, poster sessions featuring hundreds of research abstracts, and opportunities to engage with colleagues from every continent.
Bangkok’s vibrant culture, world-class hospitality, and excellent conference facilities provide an ideal setting for this major international gathering. The congress offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain global perspectives on pain management, learn about diverse approaches to treatment, and establish international collaborations. This is essential attendance for anyone serious about advancing their knowledge of pain science and clinical care.
Planning Your 2026 Conference Calendar
With such an exceptional array of conferences available in 2026, healthcare professionals in pain management face the pleasant challenge of selecting which events to attend.
The field of pain management continues to evolve rapidly, with new treatment modalities, techniques, and patient care paradigms emerging. The conferences outlined here represent invaluable opportunities to stay current with these advances, connect with colleagues and thought leaders, and ultimately provide better care for patients living with pain conditions.
Whether you’re a physician seeking the latest interventional techniques, a nurse practitioner expanding your clinical knowledge, a researcher presenting groundbreaking findings, or a healthcare administrator managing practice operations, the 2026 conference calendar offers something for everyone in the pain care community.
Summit Spine & Joint Centers is Your Local Resource
While these national and international conferences provide exceptional learning opportunities, you also have access to outstanding pain management expertise right in our community. The medical professionals at Summit Spine & Joint Centers remain dedicated to implementing the latest advances in pain management and musculoskeletal care for the benefit of our patients.
Our team stays at the forefront of the field through continuous education, including attendance at many of the conferences described in this guide. We’re committed to translating the latest research and techniques into practical, effective treatments that help you live a healthier, more active life free from chronic pain.
To learn more about how we can help you understand and treat your chronic pain condition, call us at (770) 962-3642 to schedule an appointment at any of our convenient locations throughout Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and North Carolina, including our newest clinic for Pain Management in Duluth, Georgia.