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Relationship between perceived self-control of pain, pain description and functioning
T C Toomey1, J D Mann, S Abashian
1Clinical Pain Program, Departments of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina Medical School, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 U.S.A. Clinical Pain Program, Departments of Neurology, University of North Carolina Medical School, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 U.S.A.
Pain
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Patients with chronic myofascial pain who believe they can control their pain report less intense and frequent pain. Enhancing perceived control may reduce pain severity and frequency.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Pain Management
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Previous research suggests a link between coping styles and how individuals report pain.
- Understanding the psychological factors influencing pain perception is crucial for effective chronic pain management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the internality dimension of the Pain Locus of Control Scale (PLOC) and pain report in chronic myofascial pain patients.
- To examine how perceived control over pain relates to pain intensity, frequency, and behavioral functioning.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 51 patients with chronic myofascial pain was assessed.
- The internality dimension of the PLOC was used as a dispositional measure of coping.
- Pain intensity, frequency, and pain-related behavioral functioning were measured.
Main Results:
- Patients with higher internality on the PLOC reported significantly less intense and frequent pain.
- No significant differences in pain-related behavioral functioning were found between groups.
- Results support an association between perceived pain control and pain magnitude and periodicity.
Conclusions:
- Perceived control over pain, specifically internality on the PLOC, is associated with lower pain intensity and frequency in chronic myofascial pain.
- Clinical interventions aimed at reducing pain intensity and frequency may enhance patients' perception of personal control.
- Further research could explore how to effectively increase perceived control to improve patient outcomes.