Coping with arthritis pain. A review of the literature

Abstract

Pain associated with arthritis is the primary reason patients with arthritis seek medical attention. The complex and multidimensional nature of pain among arthritis patients is examined. Self-reports of pain, the impact of pain, cognitive factors associated with pain, and the treatment of arthritis pain are reviewed. Psychosocial pain management programs emphasizing improved coping appear to be important as an adjunct to medical treatment. Implications for future research are discussed.Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a painful rheumatic condition, affects 1% of the general population. Although the specific etiology remains unknown, there is substantial evidence that the pathology of arthritis has its basis in autoimmune mechanisms [l. 21. Despite the frequent physical disability associated with arthritis [3], pain management is the primary concern for these patients [4]. Disability, pain, and depression are interrelated among arthritis patients [ 51.The role of cognitive factors in predicting pain report and disability are more important than disease-related variables among arthritis and chronic back 136 pain patients [6]. This article reviews self-report of pain, pain impact, cognitive factors, and treatment of pain among arthritis patients.

Physical function among older adults with knee pain: The role of pain coping skills

“…Cognitive and behavioral pain coping skills were significant and independent correlates of both selfreported global disability and of distance walked, supporting previous research showing the influence of pain coping on function and well-being among OA patients (9). For example, Keefe et al (12) found similar positive associations between cognitive coping and physical performance.…”

“…Research with rheumatoid arthritis patients indicates that learned cognitive and behavioral coping skills can be useful for managing pain and disability (8,9). In a prospective study with rheumatoid arthritis patients (10), for example, Keefe et al reported that catastrophizing thoughts significantly predicted pain intensity, self-reported functional impairment, and depression 6 months later.…”

Health status, adherence with health recommendations, self-efficacy and social support in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

“…This is a striking difference with studies in the United States and South Africa where pain was found to be the most important problem for arthritis patients (Brown et al, 1987;Lorig et al, 1984). Also in review articles pain is often seen as the most important consequence of RA (Anderson et al, 1985;Banwell and Ziebell, 1985;Buckelew and Parker, 1989). An explanation for these differences can possibly be found in the phrasing of the questions in the various studies.…”

Development of an instrument to measure pain in rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Scale (RAPS)

“…A study by Anderson and colleagues found that 66% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis ranked pain as the most important symptom to be treated (1). Additionally, it is well documented that pain is the primary reason why patients with arthritis seek medical attention (2,3).…”