Social Factors, Disability, and Depressive Symptoms in Adults With Chronic Pain

The predicting factors of chronic pain among nursing students: a national study in Iran

BACKGROUND

Nursing students are faced with a variety of challenges that demand effective cognitive and emotional resources. The physical and psychological well-being of the students plays a key part in the public health of the community. Despite the special lifestyle of nursing students, few studies have addressed chronic pain in this population. Accordingly, the present study aims to identify the predictors of chronic pain among nursing students.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1,719 nursing students aged 18-42 years, between February and November 2019. Sampling was carried out in several stages. Data were collected using seven instruments, namely a demographics survey, the characteristics of chronic pain form, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the Bar-on Emotional Quotient Inventory, Academic Satisfaction Scale, and Procidano and Heller Social Support Scale. Descriptive statistics, multinomial logistic regression, and regression models were used to describe the characteristics of the pain and its predictive factors.

RESULTS

The average age of the participants was 22.4 ± 2.96 years. The results of univariate analysis showed that gender (P = 0.506), mother's education (P = 0.056, P = 0.278, P = 0.278), father's education (P = 0.817, P = 0.597, P = 0.41), place of residence (P = 0.215), depression (P = 0.501), grade point average (P = 0.488), academic satisfaction (P = 0.183) and chronic pain weren't significantly correlated with chronic pain in nursing students. The results of the multiple logistic regression models showed that chronic pain was positively correlated with age, social support, state anxiety, and trait anxiety (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02-1.12; OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.93-0.97; OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02-1.05; and OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 0.95-1.99; respectively).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of chronic pain was relatively high in these students. In addition, age, social support, and anxiety could be important factors in the development or persistence of chronic pain in nursing students. The results also provided basic and essential information about the contributing factors in this area. However, consideration of factors such as referral for treatment, home medications for pain relief, and outcomes of chronic pain are suggested in future longitudinal studies.

Examining the Role of Structural and Functional Social Network Characteristics in the Context of Chronic Pain: An Ego-centered Network Design

The well-being and functioning of individuals with chronic pain (CP) vary significantly. Social factors, such as social integration, may help explain this differential impact. Specifically, structural (network size, density) as well as functional (perceived social support, conflict) social network characteristics may play a role. However, it is not yet clear whether and how these variables are associated with each other. Objectives were to examine 1) both social network characteristics in individuals with primary and secondary CP, 2) the association between structural network characteristics and mental distress and functioning/participation in daily life, and 3) whether the network's functionality mediated the association between structural network characteristics and mental distress, respectively, functioning/participation in daily life. Using an online ego-centered social network tool, cross-sectional data were collected from 303 individuals with CP (81.85% women). No significant differences between individuals with fibromyalgia versus secondary CP were found regarding network size and density. In contrast, ANCOVA models showed lower levels of perceived social support and higher levels of conflict in primary (vs secondary) CP. Structural equation models showed that 1) larger network size indirectly predicted lower mental distress via lower levels of conflict; 2) higher network density increased mental distress via the increase of conflict levels. Network size or density did not (in)directly predict functioning/participation in daily life. The findings highlight that the role of conflict, in addition to support, should not be underestimated as a mediator for mental well-being. Research on explanatory mechanisms for associations between the network's structure, functionality, and well-being is warranted. PERSPECTIVE: This paper presents results on associations between structural (network size, density) and functional (social support, conflict) social network characteristics and well-being in the context of CP by making use of an ego-centered network design. Results suggest an indirect association between structural network characteristics and individuals with CP their mental well-being.

Professional-Facing Digital Health Solutions for the Care of Patients With Chronic Pain: Protocol for a Systematic Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain is a highly prevalent condition and one of the most common reasons why people seek health care. As a result, chronic pain has a significant personal and economic burden. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated the situation for patients with chronic pain through increased risk factors (eg, anxiety or depression) as well as decreased access to health care. Digital health solutions to support people with chronic pain are becoming increasingly popular. Most of the research has focused on patient-facing digital health solutions, although it is clear that the involvement of health and care professionals is crucial in chronic pain care. Certainly, digital health solutions intended for the use of health and care professionals in the care of patients with chronic pain (ie, professional facing) exist, for example, for clinical decision support; however, no review has investigated the studies reporting these interventions.

OBJECTIVE

The overall aim of this scoping review is to identify the available professional-facing digital health solutions for the purpose of chronic pain management. The objectives of this review are to investigate the components, target populations, and user settings of the available professional-facing digital solutions; health and care professionals' perspectives on using digital health solutions (if reported); the methods in which the digital health solutions are developed; and the outcomes of using professional-facing digital health solutions.

METHODS

Databases including MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Inspec will be searched for studies reporting professional-facing digital health solutions for chronic pain care, using a comprehensive search strategy developed for each of the specific databases. A total of 2 independent reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts for review inclusion and then conduct full-text screening. Any conflicts in study inclusion will be resolved by a third reviewer at each stage of the screening process. Following data extraction and quality assessment, a qualitative content analysis of the results will be conducted. This review will identify the available professional-facing digital health solutions for chronic pain management. The results of this review are likely to be heterogeneous in terms of content (ie, the digital solutions will serve a variety of purposes, settings, target populations, etc) and methods (ie, experimental and nonexperimental designs).

RESULTS

The review is expected to finish in March 2024 and published in the summer of 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

This protocol outlines the need for a scoping review to identify professional-facing digital health solutions for the management of chronic pain. Results from this review will contribute to the growing field of research into the utility of digital health for chronic pain management.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/51311.

Limited use of virtual reality in primary care physiotherapy for patients with chronic pain

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain is a disabling condition which is prevalent in about 20% of the adult population. Physiotherapy is the most common non-pharmacological treatment option for chronic pain, but often demonstrates unsatisfactory outcomes. Virtual Reality (VR) may offer the opportunity to complement physiotherapy treatment. As VR has only recently been introduced in physiotherapy care, it is unknown to what extent VR is used and how it is valued by physiotherapists. The aim of this study was to analyse physiotherapists' current usage of, experiences with and physiotherapist characteristics associated with applying therapeutic VR for chronic pain rehabilitation in Dutch primary care physiotherapy.

METHODS

This online survey applied two rounds of recruitment: a random sampling round (873 physiotherapists invited, of which 245 (28%) were included) and a purposive sampling round (20 physiotherapists using VR included). Survey results were reported descriptively and physiotherapist characteristics associated with VR use were examined using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 265 physiotherapists participated in this survey study. Approximately 7% of physiotherapists reported using therapeutic VR for patients with chronic pain. On average, physiotherapists rated their overall experience with therapeutic VR at 7.0 and "whether they would recommend it" at 7.2, both on a 0-10 scale. Most physiotherapists (71%) who use therapeutic VR started using it less than two years ago and use it for a small proportion of their patients with chronic pain. Physiotherapists use therapeutic VR for a variety of conditions, including generalized (55%), neck (45%) and lumbar (37%) chronic pain. Physiotherapists use therapeutic VR mostly to reduce pain (68%), improve coordination (50%) and increase physical mobility (45%). Use of therapeutic VR was associated with a larger physiotherapy practice (OR = 2.38, 95% CI [1.14-4.98]). Unfamiliarity with VR seemed to be the primary reason for not using VR.

DISCUSSION

Therapeutic VR for patients with chronic pain is in its infancy in Dutch primary care physiotherapy practice as only a small minority uses VR. Physiotherapists that use therapeutic VR are modestly positive about the technology, with large heterogeneity between treatment goals, methods of administering VR, proposed working mechanisms and chronic pain conditions to treat.

Reliability, construct validity, and factorial structure of a Swedish version of the medical outcomes study social support survey (MOS-SSS) in patients with chronic pain

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of a Swedish version of the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS).

METHODS

Standard forward-backward translation was used. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among treatment seeking individuals with chronic pain included in a clinical cohort. Internal consistency was measured with Cronbach's α, test-retest reliability was examined with intraclass correlation, confirmatory factor analyses was used for examining factor structure, and correlations between the MOS-SSS and selected health validity measures were used for testing concurrent validity hypotheses.

RESULTS

182 participants were included in the study. Internal consistency measured with Cronbach's alpha was acceptable for all subscales and for the total support index of the MOS-SSS. Test-retest reliability was moderate - good for the different subscales, and was good for the overall support index. The original four factor model of the MOS-SSS was confirmed, and the concurrent validity hypotheses were also confirmed; however, the associations were weaker than expected.

CONCLUSIONS

The Swedish version of the MOS-SSS was found psychometrically sound and offers a systematic assessment of social support in specialized pain care.

Perceived Stress, Perceived Social Support, and Global Health in Adults with Chronic Pain

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain is a common problem in adults that can have a significant impact on individuals' quality of life and on society. The complex pain experience emerges from a dynamic combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Previous research has shown that social support has positive effects on health-related outcomes through two mechanisms: direct-effects and stress-buffering effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the role that perceived stress, perceived social support, and their interaction play as predictors of global physical health and global mental health in adults with chronic pain.

METHOD

One hundred sixty-five adults with chronic pain completed measures of pain, perceived stress, perceived social support, global physical health, and global mental health.

RESULTS

Perceived stress but not perceived social support made a significant and independent contribution to the prediction of global physical health; both perceived stress and perceived social support made independent contributions to the prediction of global mental health. The perceived stress × perceived social support interaction did not make a significant contribution to the prediction of either criterion variable. The results suggested that perceived stress has an impact on both global physical and mental health, whereas perceived social support associated mostly with global mental health. In addition, perceived social support does not appear to moderate the impact of stress on global physical and mental health.

CONCLUSION

The findings are more consistent with a direct-effects model than a stress-buffering model of social support.

Social activity diversity as a lifestyle factor to alleviate loneliness and chronic pain

OBJECTIVE

This study examined whether social activity diversity, a novel concept indicating an active social lifestyle, is associated with lower subsequent loneliness, and decreased loneliness is further associated with less chronic pain over time.

METHODS

2528 adults from the Midlife in the United States Study (Mage = 54 yrs) provided data at baseline (2004-2009) and 9 years later. Social activity diversity was operationalized by Shannon's entropy that captures the variety and evenness of engagement across 13 social activities (0-1). Participants reported feelings of loneliness (1-5), presence of any chronic pain (yes/no), the degree of chronic pain-related interference (0-10), and the number of chronic pain locations. Indirect associations of social activity diversity with chronic pain through loneliness were evaluated, adjusting for sociodemographics, living alone, and chronic conditions.

RESULTS

Higher social activity diversity at baseline (B = -0.21, 95%CI = [-0.41, -0.02]) and an increase in social activity diversity over time (B = -0.24, 95%CI = [-0.42, -0.06]) were associated with lower loneliness 9 years later. An increase in loneliness was associated with 24% higher risk of any chronic pain (95%CI = [1.11, 1.38]), greater chronic pain-related interference (B = 0.36, 95%CI = [0.14, 0.58]), and 17% increase in the number of chronic pain locations (95%CI = [1.10, 1.25]) at the follow-up, after controlling for corresponding chronic pain at baseline and covariates. Social activity diversity was not directly was associated with chronic pain, but there were indirect associations through its association with loneliness.

CONCLUSION

Diversity in social life may be associated with decreased loneliness, which in turn, may be associated with less chronic pain, two of the prevalent concerns in adulthood.

Depression as a Mediator and Social Participation as a Moderator in the Bidirectional Relationship Between Sleep Disorders and Pain: Dynamic Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain, sleep disorders, and depression are major global health concerns. Recent studies have revealed a strong link between sleep disorders and pain, and each of them is bidirectionally correlated with depressive symptoms, suggesting a complex relationship between these conditions. Social participation has been identified as a potential moderator in this complex relationship, with implications for treatment. However, the complex interplay among sleep disorders, pain, depressive symptoms, and social participation in middle- and old-aged Asians remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and pain in middle- and old-aged Chinese and measure the role of depression as a mediator and social participation as a moderator in this bidirectional relationship through a dynamic cohort study.

METHODS

We used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study across 5 years and included a total of 7998 middle- and old-aged people (≥45 years old) with complete data in 2011 (T1), 2015 (T2), and 2018 (T3). The cross-lag model was used to assess the interplay among sleep disorders, pain, depressive symptoms, and social participation. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the 10-item Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale. Sleep disorders were assessed by a single-item sleep quality scale and nighttime sleep duration. The pain score was the sum of all pain locations reported. Social participation was measured using self-reported activity.

RESULTS

Our results showed significant cross-lagged effects of previous sleep disorders on subsequent pain at T2 (β=.141; P<.001) and T3 (β=.117; P<.001) and previous pain on subsequent poor sleep at T2 (β=.080; P<.001) and T3 (β=.093; P<.001). The indirect effects of previous sleep disorders on pain through depressive symptoms (β=.020; SE 0.004; P<.001; effect size 21.98%), as well as previous pain on sleep disorders through depressive symptoms (β=.012; SE 0.002; P<.001; effect size 20.69%), were significant across the 3 time intervals. Among participants with high levels of social participation, there were no statistically significant effects of previous sleep disorders on subsequent pain at T2 (β=.048; P=.15) and T3 (β=.085; P=.02), nor were there statistically significant effects of previous pain on subsequent sleep disorders at T2 (β=.037; P=.15) and T3 (β=.039; P=.24). Additionally, the mediating effects of depressive symptoms on the sleep disorders-to-pain pathway (P=.14) and the pain-to-sleep disorders pathway (P=.02) were no longer statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and pain in middle- and old-aged Asians; depression plays a longitudinal mediating role in the bidirectional relationship between them; and social participation moderates the bidirectional relationship between them directly and indirectly by affecting depression. Future interventions may consider the complex relationship between these conditions and adopt a comprehensive treatment regime.

Clinical Assessment of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain-A Framework Proposal Based on a Narrative Review of the Literature

The assessment of chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) is a challenge shared by several health professionals. Fragmented or incomplete assessment can cause deleterious consequences for the patient's function. The objective of this paper was to propose a framework for clinical assessment of CMP based on the current literature and following the conceptual model of the International Classification of Functioning and Health (ICF). We propose that the ICF rationale may help to guide the processes, acting as a moderator of the clinical assessment, since it changes the perspective used to obtain and interpret findings during anamnesis and physical examination. Additionally, updated specific knowledge about pain, including that of pain domains and mechanisms, along with effective patient-clinician communication may act as a mediator of CMP assessment. We conduct the readers through the steps of the clinical assessment of CMP using both the proposed moderator and mediators and present a clinical example of application. We suggest that the proposed framework may help clinicians to implement a CMP assessment based on the biopsychosocial model using a critical and updated rationale, potentially improving assessment outcomes, i.e., clinical diagnosis.

Social distancing with chronic pain during COVID-19: A cross-sectional correlational analysis

BACKGROUND

Understanding of the role social factors play in chronic pain is growing, with more adaptive and satisfying social relationships helping pain management. During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing measures facilitated a naturalistic study of how changes to social interaction affected chronic pain intensity.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional correlational design, questionnaire data was collected over a 38-day period during the March 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, individuals with chronic pain were asked about their current pain experience as well as notable social factors which might relate to pain.

RESULTS

Multiple regression analysis revealed social satisfaction significantly predicted pain experience, with a reduction in social participation during COVID-19 lockdowns increasing pain disability, and increased social satisfaction associated with decreasing pain intensity.

CONCLUSIONS

While pain management often focuses on the functional aspects of pain alleviation, these findings suggest psychological aspects of socialising satisfaction also impact pain experience. Pain management strategies should consider ways to increase social satisfaction in individuals with chronic pain, perhaps by facilitating socialisation in the home using remote communication methods similar to those which became popular during the COVID-19 lockdown.

[Development of an integrated solution for patients with neurostimulator for chronic pain in times of COVID-19: A mobile application with a support center]

Introduction

Chronic pain is one of the most prevalent pathologies in the world. Treatment with neurostimulators is carried out in the most extreme cases and requires a large investment of resources. In these times of COVID-19 pandemic, we present a comprehensive solution for monitoring this kind of patient, this solution includes the development of a mobile application and a support center for remote monitoring (SCRM).

MMaterial and methodology

The project was developed according to the scientific evidence in the following phases: (1) approval in a multidisciplinary clinical committee of implants for chronic pain, (2) setting up a group of experts, (3) protocol adaptation for the follow-up of patients with chronic pain to the Smartphone environment, (4) technology platform adaptation to the clinical protocol (technological environment and workflow between the hospital and the SCRM), and (5) quality evaluation by survey (quantitative and qualitative) of a small series of patients.

Results

The application was evaluated by asking for user opinions about design and usefulness with the first implanted patients. Some minor adjustments were made concerning downloadable material and screen color and text.

Conclusions

Developing a comprehensive solution should be based on scientific principles and in accordance with established protocols. A support center ensures greater adherence for follow-up and better patient care.

Preferred Communication Strategies Used by Physical Therapists in Chronic Pain Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis

OBJECTIVE

Lack of clarity regarding effective communication behaviors in chronic pain management is a barrier for implementing psychologically informed physical therapy approaches that rely on competent communication by physical therapist providers. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-synthesis to inform the development of a conceptual framework for preferred communication behaviors in pain rehabilitation.

METHODS

Ten databases in the health and communication sciences were systematically searched for qualitative and mixed-method studies of interpersonal communication between physical therapists and adults with chronic pain. Two independent investigators extracted quotations with implicit and explicit references to communication and study characteristics following Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research and Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. Methodological quality for individual studies was assessed with Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, and quality of evidence was evaluated with GRADE-CERQual. An inductive thematic synthesis was conducted by coding each quotation, developing descriptive themes, and then generating behaviorally distinct analytical themes.

RESULTS

Eleven studies involving 346 participants were included. The specificity of operationalizing communication terms varied widely. Meta-synthesis identified 8 communication themes: (1) disclosure-facilitating, (2) rapport-building, (3) empathic, (4) collaborative, (5) professional accountability, (6) informative, (7) agenda-setting, and (8) meta-communication. Based on the quality of available evidence, confidence was moderate for 4 themes and low for 4 themes.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed limited operationalization of communication behaviors preferred by physical therapists in chronic pain rehabilitation. A conceptual framework based on 8 communication themes identified from the literature is proposed as a preliminary paradigm to guide future research.

IMPACT

This proposed evidence-based conceptual framework for preferred communication behaviors in pain rehabilitation provides a framework for clinicians to reflect on their own communication practices and will allow researchers to identify if and how specific communication behaviors impact clinical outcomes.

Prevalence of Chronic Pelvic Pain by Sexual Orientation in a Large Cohort of Young Women in the United States

BACKGROUND

Sexual minority (lesbian, bisexual, mostly heterosexual) young women face many sexual and reproductive health disparities, but there is scant information on their experiences of chronic pelvic pain, including an absence of information on prevalence, treatment, and outcomes.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics of chronic pelvic pain experiences of young women by sexual orientation identity and gender of sexual partners.

METHODS

The analytical sample consisted of a nationwide sample of 6,150 U.S. young women (mean age = 23 years) from the Growing Up Today Study who completed cross-sectional questionnaires from 1996 to 2007.

OUTCOMES

Age-adjusted regression analyses were used to examine groups categorized by sexual orientation identity (completely heterosexual [ref.], mostly heterosexual, bisexual, lesbian) and gender of sexual partner (only men [ref.], no partners, both men, and women). We examined differences in lifetime and past-year chronic pelvic pain symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life outcomes. Sensitivity analyses also examined the role of pelvic/gynecologic exam history and hormonal contraceptive use as potential effect modifiers.

RESULTS

Around half of all women reported ever experiencing chronic pelvic pain, among whom nearly 90% had past-year chronic pelvic pain. Compared to completely heterosexual women, there was greater risk of lifetime chronic pelvic pain among mostly heterosexual (risk ratio [RR] = 1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-1.38), bisexual (RR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.10-1.52), and lesbian (RR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.00-1.52) young women. Additionally, compared to young women with only past male sexual partners, young women who had both men and women as past sexual partners were more likely to report chronic pelvic pain interfered with their social activities (b = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.25-1.02), work/school (b = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.17-0.93), and sex (b = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.05-1.00).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Healthcare providers, medical education, and field-wide standards of care should be attentive to the way sexual orientation-based healthcare disparities can manifest into differential prognosis and quality of life outcomes for women with chronic pelvic pain (particularly bisexual women).

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

Our study is the first to examine a variety of chronic pelvic pain outcomes in a nationwide U.S. sample across different outcomes (ie, past-year and lifetime). Though limited by sample homogeneity in terms of age, race, ethnicity, and gender, findings from this article provide foundational insights about chronic pelvic pain experiences of sexual minority young women.

CONCLUSION

Our key finding is that sexual minority women were commonly affected by chronic pelvic pain, and bisexual women face pain-related quality of life disparities. Tabaac AR, Chwa C, Sutter ME, et al. Prevalence of Chronic Pelvic Pain by Sexual Orientation in a Large Cohort of Young Women in the United States. J Sex Med 2022;19:1012-1023.

Patient-to-Patient Interactions During the Pain Management Programme: The Role of Humor and Venting in Building a Socially Supportive Community

Objectives

Social support is most positively perceived when there is an optimal match between a patient's need for communication and the purpose of their interaction. Maladaptive communication patterns may inhibit social bonding or mutual support, negatively impacting clinical outcomes. This study aimed to identify how people with chronic pain naturalistically converse together about their pain in the context of a Pain Management Programme (PMP).

Methods

Seven participants (4 females; 3 males) with ongoing chronic pain who were attending a PMP in a regional hospital in the United Kingdom were audio/video recorded during breaks in their PMP. Interactions were transcribed using Jeffersonian Transcription and analyzed using Conversation Analysis.

Results

Two conversational mechanisms were identified: (1) Conversational humor; and (2) A venting cycle. Participants used their pain-related experiences construct a motive for a joke, then proceeded to deliver the joke, which initiated a joke return from observers. The sequence was completed by a collaborative punchline. In the venting cycle, an initial complaint was escalated by the sharing of comparable experiences, after which the vent was concluded through a joke punchline, acting as a pivot to move the conversation forwards, terminating the venting.

Conclusions

Humorous interpersonal interactions about chronic pain provided a forum for social support-building within the PMP. Humor was affiliative and built social collaboration, helping individuals to together make sense of their pain in a prosocial atmosphere, approaching pain-related experiences with levity. Patient-to-patient interactions within the PMP were strongly prosocial and inclusive, potentially facilitating enhanced PMP clinical outcomes through collaboration.

Management of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Through a Biopsychosocial Lens

Chronic musculoskeletal pain continues to constitute a rising cost and burden on individuals and society on a global level, thus driving the demand for improved management strategies. The biopsychosocial model has long been a recommended approach to help manage chronic pain, with its consideration of the person and his or her experiences, psychosocial context, and societal considerations. However, the biomedical model continues to be the basis of athletic therapy and athletic training programs and therefore clinical practice. For more than 30 years, psychosocial factors have been identified in the literature as outcome predictors relating to chronic pain, including (but not limited to) catastrophizing, fear avoidance, and self-efficacy. Physical assessment strategies such as validated outcome measures can be used by the athletic therapist and athletic trainer to determine the presence or severity (or both) of nonbiogenic pain. Knowledge of these predictors and strategies allows the athletic therapist and athletic trainer to frame the use of exercise (eg, graded exposure), manual therapy, and therapeutic modalities in the appropriate way to improve clinical outcomes. Through changes in educational curricula content, such as those recommended by the International Association for the Study of Pain, athletic therapists and athletic trainers can develop profession-specific knowledge and skills that will enhance their clinical practice and enable them to better assist those living with chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions.

Social integration of adolescents with chronic pain: a social network analysis

RESULTS

showed that ACPs were not less popular than adolescents without chronic pain. Second, ACPs nominated each other more often as being part of the same peer group. Third, results regarding friendship quality showed that adolescents with more pain problems perceived the relationship with their friends as less positive (e.g., support) and more negative (e.g., conflict) than adolescents with less pain problems. Finally, positive and negative friendship quality moderated the relationship between pain and emotional distress.The current study contributes to the literature on the importance of ACPs' peer relationships. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Chronic pain, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in nursing students in pandemic times

ABSTRACT Objectives To identify the manifestations of chronic pain (CP), anxiety, and depressive symptoms in nursing students at a federal public university in pandemic times, analyzing the association between these variables and to describe population characteristics. Method This was a quantitative, cross-sectional, observational, and analytical study carried out from July to November 2020 with a sample of 119 nursing students enrolled in the second half of 2020. Questionnaires were used to characterize sociodemographic and lifestyle habits, the body map of the Multidimensional Pain Evaluation Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Results Nursing students in the studied sample are mostly female, with a mean age of 23.4 years, and 37.8% live with CP. Students with CP had higher anxiety levels and more depressive symptoms. There was an association between PC, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in this sample. Conclusion During the pandemic period investigated, an association was found between PC, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in the population of nursing students at the studied university, indicating that those who live with PC experience higher anxiety levels and more depressive symptoms than students without PC.

Dor crônica, ansiedade e sintomas depressivos em estudantes de Enfermagem em tempos de pandemia

RESUMO Objetivos Identificar as manifestações de dor crônica (DC), ansiedade e sintomas depressivos em estudantes de Enfermagem de uma universidade pública federal em tempos de pandemia, analisando a associação entre essas variáveis, e descrever as características sociodemográficas e de hábitos de vida na população estudada. Método Estudo quantitativo, transversal, observacional e analítico, realizado de julho a novembro de 2020, com amostra de 119 estudantes de Enfermagem matriculados no segundo semestre de 2020. Foram utilizados questionários para caracterização sociodemográfica e de hábitos de vida, o mapa corporal da Escala Multidimensional de Avaliação de Dor, o Inventário de Ansiedade Traço-Estado e o Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Resultados A maioria dos estudantes de Enfermagem da amostra é do sexo feminino, com idade média de 23,4 anos, e 37,8% convivem com DC. Os estudantes com DC apresentaram maiores níveis de ansiedade e mais sintomas depressivos. Verificou-se associação entre DC, ansiedade e sintomas depressivos nessa amostra. Conclusão Durante o período pandêmico investigado, foi encontrada associação entre DC, ansiedade e sintomas depressivos na população de estudantes de Enfermagem da universidade investigada, indicando que os acadêmicos com DC experimentam maiores níveis de ansiedade e mais sintomas depressivos do que aqueles sem DC.

Development of an integrated solution for patients with neurostimulator for chronic pain in times of COVID-19: A mobile application with a support center

Introduction

Chronic pain is one of the most prevalent pathologies in the world. Treatment with neurostimulators is carried out in the most extreme cases and requires a large investment of resources. In these times of the COVID19 pandemic, we present a comprehensive solution for monitoring this kind of patient, this solution includes the development of a mobile application and a support center for remote monitoring (SCRM).

Material and methodology

The project was developed according to the scientific evidence in the following phases: (1) Approval in a multidisciplinary clinical committee of implants for chronic pain, (2) Setting up a group of experts, (3) Protocol adaptation for the follow-up of patients with chronic pain to the Smartphone environment, (4) Technology platform adaptation to the clinical protocol (technological environment and workflow between the hospital and the SCRM), and (5) Quality evaluation by survey (quantitative and qualitative) of a small series of patients.

Results

The application was evaluated by asking for user opinions about design and usefulness with the first implanted patients. Some minor adjustments were made concerning downloadable material and screen color and text.

Conclusions

Developing a comprehensive solution should be based on scientific principles and in accordance with established protocols. A support center ensures greater adherence for follow-up and better patient care.

Effects of COVID-19 Social Distancing Measures in Individuals with Chronic Pain Living in Spain in the Late Stages of the Lockdown

Social distancing measures during the lockdown have had a negative impact on chronic pain patients' function. Research, however, has only focused on the early stages of the first lockdowns. The aim of this study was to improve the understanding of the effects of COVID-19 social distancing measures on individuals with chronic pain living in Spain during the late stages of the lockdown. A group of 361 adults with pain participated in this study. They responded to an online survey and provided information on sociodemographic issues, pain, fatigue, perceived health, and quality of life. The data showed that most participants suffered moderate to severe pain and interferences with pain treatment and an increase in pain intensity during the lockdown. Most participants also informed us that fatigue had worsened during the lockdown (62%). Importantly, females with lower monthly family income and lower education have been found to be associated with greater levels of pain and fatigue. Despite this, participants perceived themselves as having good health and good quality of life. The findings from this study can be used to inform policy and specific responses for future COVID-19 waves and future pandemics where social distancing measures must be implemented.

The Informal Social Support for Autonomy and Dependence in Pain Inventory Spanish version

Social support plays a crucial role in the quality of life of people with chronic pain. The Informal Social Support for Autonomy and Dependence in Pain Inventory assesses two functions of received social support: the promotion of autonomy and the promotion of dependence. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to adapt this instrument for its use in the Spanish population. The sample comprised 256 individuals with chronic pain. Participants were recruited through two local associations of people with fibromyalgia, a physiotherapy unit and a hospital pain unit. The data were collected in Spain between October 2018 and January 2020. The structure of the questionnaire was analysed using confirmatory factor analysis, average variance extracted, composite reliability and internal consistency indexes, and inter-correlations between the scales. The criterion-related validity of the instrument was analysed by investigating its relationship with pain intensity, positive and negative affect, daily functioning, activity impairment, wellbeing and satisfaction with life. The structure with the best fit had four related factors: emotional social support for the promotion of autonomy; instrumental social support for the promotion of autonomy; emotional social support for the promotion of dependence and instrumental social support for the promotion of dependence. The scales showed adequate internal consistency. An association was found between higher levels of instrumental social support for the promotion of dependence and higher levels of pain-related disability and decreased daily functioning. An association was also found between the promotion of autonomy and increased satisfaction with life. The Spanish version of the inventory shows appropriate psychometric properties. In the setting of disability prevention, this instrument is useful in assessing the support relationships between people with chronic pain and their relatives.

Prevalence and associated factors of disability in patients with chronic pain: An observational study

The primary treatment goal of patients experiencing chronic pain has shifted from pain reduction to functional status improvement. However, the prevalence of disability and its associated factors in patients with chronic pain remain unknown.Individuals aged ≥50 years who visited the Pain Center at Nara Medical University with chronic pain from June 2019 to May 2020 were eligible for enrollment. Patients were asked to complete the Japanese version of the 12-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. Patient demographics, pain intensity, level of catastrophizing, anxiety, depression, and exercise habits were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with disability.Of the 551 patients with a median age of 73 years, 51.5% experienced disability. Fixed factors such as age (odds ratio [OR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.06, P = .002) and lumbar and lower limb pain (OR, 3.10; 95% CI, 1.83-5.24, P < .001) and some modifiable factors, including anxiety (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.06-3.98, P = .03), depression (OR, 3.62; 95% CI, 1.92-6.82, P < .001), pain catastrophizer (OR, 2.94; 95% CI, 1.88-4.61, P < .001), numeric rating scale at the most painful site (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.18-1.42, P < .001), exercise habits (walking (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.33-0.83, P = .006) and working out (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.34-0.99, P = .046), were found to be independently associated with disability.This cross-sectional study revealed a high prevalence of disability in patients with chronic pain and identified the factors associated with disability.

Chronic Pain Management during the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has led caregivers to modify patient healthcare, with a high impact on patients with chronic pain.

AIMS

To map recommendations for the management of chronic pain patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and propose a workflow for the management of these patients.

DESIGN

This was a scoping review.

METHODS

The databases searched were PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and LILACS. The studies were examined by two independent reviewers. The disagreements between reviewers were resolved through discussion or with a third reviewer.

RESULTS

We presented the results in the form of a table, a workflow, and a narrative summary. The search resulted in 13 studies selected for full reading, including one consensus, five guidance documents, two expert panels, one joint statement, two educational flyers, and two free comments. We considered new technologies, including telemedicine. Each pain service needs to establish a screening model, classifying patients according to corresponding severity. Particular attention should be given to patients who use opioids and are at risk of misusing them. Nonpharmacological approaches and pain education should be maintained, considering the use of telehealth.

CONCLUSIONS

Recommendations for the management of chronic pain during COVID-19 include adjustments to the patient care model. The workflow proposes the use of telemedicine, screening for painful intensity, and the use of color-signaled intervention packages according to severity (green, yellow, and red).

The role of social isolation in physical and emotional outcomes among patients with chronic pain

OBJECTIVE

Social isolation negatively impacts early-disease processes and long-term health. Individuals with chronic pain are more vulnerable to social isolation, which exacerbates symptoms. It is currently unclear whether: 1. group-based programs for chronic pain improve social isolation, 2. improvements in social isolation account for improvements in outcomes. This study involved secondary data analysis of participants in a 10-week mind-body physical activity program. We examined whether social isolation improved during treatment, and whether such improvements accounted for improvements in emotional and physical functioning.

METHODS

Participants (N = 82) with chronic pain were randomized to a group-based mind-body physical activity intervention with (GetActive-Fitbit; n = 41) or without a Fitbit device (GetActive; n = 41). Participants completed self-reported measures of social isolation, emotional functioning (depression and anxiety symptoms), and multimodal physical functioning (self-report, performance-based, and objective). We used linear mixed effects modeling to examine pre-post treatment changes in social isolation and whether these changes accounted for improvements in emotional and physical functioning.

RESULTS

Both interventions were associated with significant and comparable improvements in social isolation from baseline to end of treatment, and improvements in social isolation accounted for significant improvements in self-reported emotional and physical functioning.

CONCLUSION

Interventions may target social isolation in chronic pain to optimize treatment outcomes.

Chronic pain in the time of COVID-19: Stress aftermath and central sensitization

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 crisis is a significant stressor worldwide. The physical and emotional condition of individuals with pain sensitization syndromes who are experiencing the pandemic may worsen. This study investigated the contribution of life changes due to the coronavirus to emotional distress in individuals with a diagnosis of chronic central sensitization pain and tested whether the associations between level of pain and sensitization were independent of or mediated by emotional distress.

METHODS

Spanish individuals with chronic pain (N = 362) completed an online survey on direct or indirect exposure to the consequences of COVID-19, pain intensity, and emotional distress. They also completed central sensitization questionnaires.

RESULTS

An association was found between changes in daily routines and pain intensity, emotional distress, and sensitization scores. Correlations were found between emotional distress, sensitization, and pain intensity. Significant predictors of emotional distress were age, difficulty in receiving medical care, changes in daily routines, and diminished social support. Emotional distress did not mediate the association between sensitization and pain intensity.

CONCLUSION

Due to the COVID-19 situation, individuals with central sensitization pain syndromes may be at higher risk of developing psychological distress. Interdisciplinary interventions involving psychologists are urgently needed to provide this population with appropriate health care.