Psychological and psychiatric aspects of chronic pain syndrome

ABSTRACT

Recent research in the field of chronic pain has highlighted the importance of the assessment of psychological factors as part of the overall assessment of chronic pain patients. Psychological factors come into play not only in the genesis| of the chronic pain syndrome but also in the kind of behaviour displayed by the sufferer in obtaining or not obtaining the kind of help he thinks he needs. The psychological meaning of pain on the intra-personal level and the societal response to those who complain of pain [the inter-personal response] can greatly affect the way people respond to and develop into chronic pain sufferers. Psychiatrists and psychologists have also contributed to the classification and more refined diagnosis of chronic pain syndromes. A number of different approaches have been taken to make a psychological evaluation ranging from formal assessment of psychiatric illness to self-report questionnaires and clinical evaluation. Furthermore psychological therapies and psychotropic medication now constitute a main part of the modern approach to chronic pain syndrome management. The local cultural and personal factors which can affect the chronic pain syndromes in their development and their management are examined. Finally, some general recommendations for the better management of chronic pain syndrome patients are made