Pain management by occupational therapists

Chronic pain is common among individuals with physical disabilities. It can interfere with therapy since patients with chronic pain can become uncooperative and reluctant to move. In some cases, patients may even project their discomfort onto the therapist. This paper reviews the natural physiological mechanisms that can reduce pain perception. The occupational therapist can help facilitate the activation of these mechanisms through a combination of noninvasive modalities, functional activities, and the therapeutic use of self.