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Self-system therapy for distress associated with persistent low back pain: A randomized clinical trial
Sandra J Waters1,2, Timothy J Strauman3, Daphne C McKee1
1a Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences , Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA.
Objective:
Persistent low back pain (PLBP) is associated with vulnerability to depression. PLBP frequently requires major changes in occupation and lifestyle, which can lead to a sense of failing to attain one's personal goals (self-discrepancy).
Method:
We conducted a clinical trial to examine the efficacy of self-system therapy (SST), a brief structured therapy for depression based on self-discrepancy theory. A total of 101 patients with PLBP and clinically significant depressive symptoms were randomized either to SST, pain education, or standard care.
Results:
Patients receiving SST showed significantly greater improvement in depressive symptoms. Reduction in self-discrepancy predicted reduction in depressive symptoms only within the SST condition.
Conclusions:
Findings support the utility of SST for individuals facing persistent pain and associated depression.
