Related Experiment Videos
Evaluation of a brief chronic pain management program: effects and limitations
L Stans1, L Goossens, B Van Houdenhove
1Department of Clinical Psychology, University Psychiatric Center and Pain Clinic, Louvain, Belgium.
The Clinical Journal of Pain
|December 1, 1989
Summary
This study evaluated a multidisciplinary pain management program for chronic pain patients. While initial results showed significant improvements, long-term benefits were only partially maintained.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Psychology
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Chronic pain affects millions, necessitating effective management strategies.
- Multidisciplinary programs offer a comprehensive approach to pain.
- Evaluating treatment efficacy is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the short- and long-term effectiveness of a multidisciplinary pain management program.
- To identify changes in pain levels, daily functioning, medication use, and coping mechanisms.
- To explore factors influencing treatment maintenance.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 35 chronic pain patients participated in the program.
- Data collected at posttreatment and follow-up included pain intensity, functional capacity, medication intake, and cognitive/coping strategies.
- Statistical analysis was used to evaluate changes over time.
Main Results:
- Patients reported reduced pain, increased functional capacity (up-time), and decreased medication consumption immediately after treatment.
- Significant improvements were observed in positive pain cognitions and active coping strategies.
- Treatment gains were not fully sustained at the follow-up assessment.
Conclusions:
- The multidisciplinary pain management program demonstrated short-term efficacy in improving various aspects of chronic pain.
- Long-term maintenance of therapeutic benefits remains a challenge.
- Further research is needed to enhance the transfer and long-term maintenance of treatment gains.