[Cognitive behavior therapy in patients with ankylosing spondylitis]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Psychology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition causing pain and functional impairment.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a potential adjunctive treatment for chronic pain conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral program as an adjunctive treatment for patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
• To assess the impact of the program on pain intensity, anxiety, depression, and psychophysiological complaints.

Main Methods:

• A cognitive-behavioral program including progressive muscle relaxation, cognitive and hypnotic pain control techniques, information, and group discussions was administered.
• The study involved 25 patients with ankylosing spondylitis in self-help groups, with 20 patients serving as a control group.
• Data were collected using pain diaries and questionnaires on anxiety, depression, and psychophysiological complaints, with a six-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in pain intensity and pain-related impairments were observed.
• Patients experienced significant decreases in anxiety levels and sleep disorders.
• The program demonstrated a long-term positive effect on overall wellbeing beyond pain control.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective adjunctive treatment for managing ankylosing spondylitis pain.
• The program leads to sustained improvements in patient wellbeing and quality of life.
• Group-based cognitive-behavioral interventions can be successfully implemented within self-help settings.