Yes. If you are in recovery, as I am, it is important to know the difference between opioid dependance and opiod abuse. I am very open with all of my doctors, my sponsor, and I know that I’m never going to be pain free, so I had to learn how to cut down my dose of medication so that I don't have to increase the dose due to opioid dependence. Every morning when there is sun, the first thing I try to do is go out and move or at least sit in the sun. I have adjusted my diet to full vegan with no soy or gluten, and I recently found out that vitamin B complex works better for my neuropathy than any amount of gabapentin.
Although this condition is most often very progressive, although "Chronic Pain Syndrome" is a rather broad term that can describe numerous conditions that cause Chronic pain, and some conditions such as Fibromyalgia can actually be made worse by the use of opiates. Typically though, even people with Fibromyalgia end up with other chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and many other conditions that are all related.
I have been able to keep my pain medicine at the same dose for over 5 years now. I used to have to increase my dose in the winter, but now I just lower my breakthrough medication during the summer months when the pain is less, and come winter, I have it when I need it, and I'm not dependent on it because I lower my tolerance by cutting down my meds whenever I can. I also use CBD and MMJ for pain as well. CBD works really goood for inflammation and THC or Full Spectrum Concentrate works extremely well for the deep pain.
The best thing I can say to do if you are concerned about chronic pain leading to opioid dependence, is to do your best to remain active(as you possibly can), keep your muscles strong, and your body healthy. I stay close to support groups for addiction, and keep accountable for my usage. If I'm thinking about taking a breakthrough pill, I question myself. Is there anything else I can do to relieve this pain? I try to distract myself, I only take my medication as necessary.