Coping strategies used by individuals with chronic orofacial pain: A qualitative study

Chronic orofacial pain is associated with a myriad of challenges and pain management strategies. The purpose of this study is to understand the daily coping strategies individuals endorse to inform patient-centered interventions. In a cross-sectional qualitative study, individuals (N = 224, M_age = 58.87) with chronic orofacial pain responded to a survey including an open-ended question about how they cope with orofacial pain. Qualitative thematic analysis followed a hybrid inductive-deductive approach, informed by the three main themes of the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain. In the biological coping strategies theme, participants reported medication use, substance use, medical intervention, lifestyle modifications, and other biological assistive strategies. Within the psychological coping theme, participants described positive psychology strategies, endurance, distractions, avoidance, and hopelessness. In the social theme, responses reflected both social avoidance and social support seeking strategies. These findings may help providers identify and address maladaptive coping strategies and promote helpful strategies.