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Conceptualizing and Treating Comorbid Chronic Pain and PTSD
Michelle A Bosco1, Jessica L Gallinati, Michael E Clark
1James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Hospital, University of South Florida, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard (116B), Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
Pain Research and Treatment
|July 3, 2013
Summary
This review explores treating chronic pain and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) together. An integrated model addresses how avoidance impacts both conditions, offering a new framework for concurrent care.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pain Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Chronic pain and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur.
- Understanding the complex relationship between these conditions is crucial for effective treatment.
- Existing theories and definitions require synthesis to address their overlap.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale for concurrent, evidence-based treatment of chronic pain and PTSD.
- To synthesize theoretical components into a comprehensive conceptual framework.
- To propose an integrated treatment model for co-occurring pain and PTSD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of definitions and theories for chronic pain and PTSD.
- Synthesis of theoretical components to establish a conceptual framework.
- Development of an integrated treatment model focusing on avoidance.
Main Results:
- Established a conceptual framework for understanding the relationship between chronic pain and PTSD.
- Highlighted the clinical complexity arising from the overlap of these conditions.
- Proposed an integrated treatment model addressing avoidance as a core factor.
Conclusions:
- Concurrent treatment of chronic pain and PTSD is warranted.
- An integrated approach is necessary to manage the complexity of co-occurring conditions.
- Addressing avoidance is a key component of effective integrated treatment for pain and PTSD.
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