The meaning of pain management: a concept analysis

As it relates to the person experiencing chronic nonmalignant pain, the conceptual meaning of pain management has not been clarified previously. This article describes a concept analysis of pain management that resulted in a definition of the term and three defining attributes: pain relief, pain modulation, and self-efficacy. A model case is provided with examples of borderline and related cases. The findings of this analysis will contribute to instrument development, theory testing, and an understanding that should positively impact the self-management of persons experiencing chronic nonmalignant pain.