Pilot study of a 4-week Pain Coping Strategies (PCS) programme for the chronic pain patient

A 4-week Pain Coping Strategies (PCS) programme has been developed for chronic pain patients who may still be undergoing medical interventions but who would benefit from learning pain management skills. The long-term negative behaviours associated with chronic pain may be prevented by introducing pain management strategies at an earlier stage. The PCS programme combines all the fundamental aspects of the traditional Pain Management Programme including exercise, relaxation, pacing, medication review, pain pathways, posture and challenging negative thoughts.

The study compared 31 patients' mood, functional status and physical ability pre and 6 weeks post the programme using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and a series of physical tests. A paired samples t-test showed a significant improvement in levels of depression and anxiety, functional status and physical ability.

The results reveal that an early intervention programme may be effective for chronic pain patients by promoting self-management and teaching positive coping strategies.

The current study has found promising results for a brief early intervention for chronic pain, regardless of completion of medical interventions.