A Controlled Trial of Methods for Managing Pain in Primary Care Patients With or Without Co-Occurring Psychosocial Problems
Ann Fam Med Ahles et al.
4: 341
The Article in Brief
A Controlled Trial of Methods for Managing Pain in Primary Care Patients With or Without Co-Occurring Psychosocial Problems
Tim A. Ahles, PhD, and colleagues
Background Pain is common among primary care patients and is difficult to manage. This study tested a program in which patients received information tailored to their pain problems. Patients with pain and psychosocial problems (such as emotional problems or substance abuse) received telephone coaching from a nurse who taught them skills in problem-solving and pain management. Doctors received feedback about their patients' problems and concerns.
What This Study Found For patients with pain and psychosocial problems, telephone-based assistance can reduce pain, improve psychosocial problems, and improve physical functioning.
Implications
- Tailored information for patients with pain, combined with feedback to physicians and telephone nurse support of pain self-management, appears to be effective. Further study is needed to determine the most cost-effective method for sharing information and providing support in such a program.
