High Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Scale Scores Among Patients with Persistent Chronic Nonspecific Low...

Area of Science:

• Pain Medicine
• Psychiatry
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Previous research indicates links between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.
• The association between ADHD and persistent chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) has not been previously explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of possible ADHD in patients experiencing persistent CNLBP.
• To compare ADHD scale scores in CNLBP patients with healthy individuals.
• To examine the relationship between ADHD scale scores and pain-related variables in CNLBP patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 60 patients with persistent CNLBP was conducted at a university hospital's specialized pain clinic.
• Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS) self-report (CAARS-S) and observer-rated (CAARS-O) questionnaires were used for assessment.
• Analysis focused on CAARS scores and their correlation with pain duration and intensity (Numeric Rating Scale).

Main Results:

• 31.7% of CNLBP patients scored positive on both CAARS-S and CAARS-O (T-score > 65).
• ADHD indices were significantly higher in CNLBP patients compared to the Japanese standardized sample (P < 0.005).
• Hyperactivity/impulsivity subscale scores correlated with pain intensity (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Patients with persistent CNLBP exhibit notably high scores on ADHD rating scales.
• ADHD screening is warranted in the management of persistent CNLBP, as ADHD medications have shown potential for pain relief.
• Further research with larger sample sizes and clinical interviews is recommended to confirm these findings.