Diagnostic change and personality stability following functional restoration treatment in chronic low back pain patients.

This study examined personality pathology in a group of patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) using both diagnostic interviews and dimensional self-report instruments. A group of CLBP patients (N = 125) was assessed before functional restoration treatment and compared with a matched normal comparison group (N = 75). The CLBP group evidenced broad personality pathology in all assessment modes pretreatment relative to the normal comparison sample. In addition, two subsamples of CLBP patients (n = 49 and n = 56) were assessed after treatment. Reductions in personality pathology between pre- and posttreatment assessments were more pronounced for diagnostic interview than dimensional self-report assessments. These results are discussed in the context of personality assessment and CLBP.

Changes in psychopathology following functional restoration of chronic low back pain patients: A prospective study.

Past research has consistently demonstrated high rates of psychopathology in patients disabled with chronic low back pain. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether functional restoration treatment of these patients would lead to significant changes in psychopathology. Fifty-six patients were evaluated for current psychiatric disorders, using a structured clinical interview for DSM-III-R disorders, upon admission to a comprehensive 3 week functional restoration program, and again at 6 months following their rehabilitation. Results clearly documented significant decreases in prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders, particularly somatoform pain disorder and major depression. Such findings demonstrate that effective rehabilitation can significantly decrease the high rates of psychopathology commonly found in chronic low back pain patients.