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Perceived injustice: a risk factor for problematic pain outcomes.
Michael J L Sullivan1, Whitney Scott, Zina Trost
1Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. michael.sullivan@mcgill.ca
The Clinical Journal of Pain
|June 8, 2012
Summary
Perceptions of injustice following musculoskeletal injury are linked to worse pain outcomes, including depression and poor recovery. Addressing these feelings is crucial for better physical and mental health rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Pain research
- Psychological outcomes
- Musculoskeletal injury
Background:
- Emerging research links perceptions of injustice after musculoskeletal injury to pain outcomes.
- Perceived injustice significantly impacts recovery and mental health post-injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review evidence connecting perceptions of injustice to adverse pain outcomes.
- Define perceived injustice as an appraisal of loss severity, blame, unfairness, and irreparability.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of cross-sectional and prospective studies.
- Analysis of correlations between perceived injustice and pain-related outcomes.
Main Results:
- High perceived injustice correlates with pain catastrophizing, fear of movement, and depression.
- Perceived injustice predicts poor rehabilitation outcomes and prolonged work disability.
- Interference with physical recovery and mental health recovery post-injury.
Conclusions:
- Perceived injustice is associated with adverse health and mental health recovery trajectories.
- Highlights the need for future research and treatment strategies targeting perceived injustice.
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