Embracing Our Role in the Prevention of Chronic Pain

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Pain Management
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Chronic pain significantly impacts children and families, exacerbated by the opioid epidemic.
• Healthcare is increasingly focused on preventing chronic pain by addressing risk factors in children.
• Pediatric physical therapists are well-positioned to contribute to chronic pain prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for enhanced roles for pediatric physical therapists in primary and secondary chronic pain prevention.
• To highlight the critical developmental periods of infancy and early adolescence for intervention.
• To emphasize the unique skills pediatric physical therapists bring to pain management.

Main Methods:

• This is a perspective article, not based on empirical data collection.
• It reviews current approaches to pediatric chronic pain prevention.
• It analyzes the existing role and potential of pediatric physical therapists.

Main Results:

• Pediatric physical therapists can play a vital role in identifying and managing children at risk for chronic pain.
• Their expertise in developmental screening and evaluation is applicable to pain prevention.
• Increased visibility and proactive strategies are needed.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric physical therapists should expand their involvement in preventing chronic pain in infants and early adolescents.
• Integrating these professionals into prevention efforts can mitigate the long-term effects of childhood chronic pain.
• A collaborative approach across healthcare disciplines is essential.