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An Investigation of the Temporal Relations Between Pain Intensity and Pain Interference With Depression Following
Megan G Weishaar1, Arjun Bhalla, Dmitry Esterov
1Author Affiliations: Department of Rehabilitation Medicine (Weishaar, Bhalla, Barber, Bombardier), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (Bhalla), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; and Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Esterov), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
Following moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), pain intensity and interference equally impact depression over one year. Early assessment and tailored interventions for pain and depression are crucial post-TBI.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) frequently leads to comorbid conditions, including pain and depression.
- Understanding the temporal relationship between pain and depression is vital for effective TBI recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the predominant temporal direction of the relationship between pain intensity and pain interference with depression.
- To analyze these associations in the year following moderate-to-severe TBI.
Main Methods:
- A 1-year prospective cohort study involving 180 participants with moderate-to-severe TBI.
- Cross-lagged panel analysis was used to assess pain (intensity and interference) and depression at rehabilitation discharge and 12 months post-discharge.
Main Results:
- Both pain intensity and pain interference showed equally strong temporal associations with depression.
- The bidirectional relationship between pain-related variables and depression remained consistent over the 1-year follow-up period.
Conclusions:
- Pain intensity, pain interference, and depression are significant comorbidities following TBI.
- Early and ongoing assessment of these conditions is recommended, with interventions tailored to individual patient needs.
