The Clinical journal of pain
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Nonspecific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is associated with psychological and social factors such as social support. However, little research has focused on the latter. This article aimed to review the literature on the association between social support and clinical outcomes of patients with NSCLBP, particularly regarding differences in sex, gender, and types of social support. ⋯ Small associations were found between social support and clinical outcomes of individuals with NSCLBP. Further research is needed to establish its clinical relevance according to types of social support, sex, and gender.
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This study was the first to apply a socio-narratology framework to the narratives about child pain as told by youth with chronic pain and their parents, all of whom experience chronic headaches. ⋯ Findings support the clinical utility of narrative in pediatric pain, including both parents' and youths' narrative accounts to improve clinical encounters and cocreate more youth-centred, empowering narratives.
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Chronic pain disorders are among the most common and affect approximately 20% of the US population, leading to disproportionately high medical expenditures and negative economic impact. Behavioral factors of pain catastrophizing and perceived injustice are associated with pain intensity in chronic pain. Diminished heart rate variability (HRV) is also strongly associated with chronic pain. These factors have been less explored earlier in the pain experience and it is unclear whether they play a role in the transition from acute to chronic pain. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between pain catastrophizing, perceived injustice, pain intensity and HRV in naturally occurring acute pain. ⋯ While greater chronic pain intensity is associated with lower HRV, the relationship is reversed in the setting of acute pain. These findings highlight the need to better understand the unique factors that contribute to lower HRV in the acute phase.
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The majority of patients with musculoskeletal pain (62% to 64%) achieve their treatment goals upon completing rehabilitation. However, a high re-consultation rate after discharge is frequently reported. Numerous authors have recognized the necessity of secondary prevention programs (after-discharge strategy) to ensure that the gains are maintained or further pursued after the completion of a rehabilitation program. Little is known about the different strategies currently in use, and a detailed review of the existing strategies is needed for future integration into the healthcare systems. ⋯ We identified various after-discharge strategies designed to sustain gains and improve patients' self-management skills following the completion of a rehabilitation program. The existence of numerous promising strategies suggests their potential suitability for various contexts.