Multidisciplinary treatment for rheumatic pain

Chronic pain experienced by patients with rheumatic conditions is recognized to contribute importantly to suffering. Multidisciplinary pain clinics that adhere to the biopsychosocial concept of pain management provide an effective treatment strategy for many with chronic pain. Other than for low back pain and fibromyalgia, little attention has been given to the specific experience of treating those with rheumatic diseases in such a setting. It is, however, reasonable to suggest that many patients with chronic rheumatic pain could benefit from exposure to a multidisciplinary pain treatment programme that incorporates components of education, exercise and activity, as well as psychological techniques and support. Although the specifics of such a treatment will require defining, rheumatologists can look forward to expanded care for their patients with chronic rheumatic pain, and they should be encouraged to become more involved in these clinics.