Chronic pain. A pharmacologic review and behavior modification approach

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• Pain syndromes require a multidimensional approach, considering social, psychologic, and somatic factors.
• Previous treatments often involved complex drug regimens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a combined approach for pain management.
• To assess the impact on social and physical activity.
• To determine medication needs post-treatment.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a combined approach at the Behavioral Medicine/Pain Therapy Center.
• Focused on increasing social and physical activity.
• Assessed patient outcomes with reduced or eliminated medication regimens.

Main Results:

• Most patients significantly increased social and physical activity.
• A majority of patients previously on complex drug regimens improved with little or no medication.
• Tricyclic antidepressants were most successful for long-term medication needs.

Conclusions:

• A multidimensional pain management strategy is effective.
• This approach can lead to reduced medication dependence.
• Tricyclic antidepressants are a viable option for long-term pain management when indicated.