Imagery, self-efficacy and chronic pain

Abstract

Worldwide, chronic pain is one of the most common chronic conditions with 1.9 billion people affected, with some estimates as high as 30 % of the world’s population experiencing chronic pain. Many of the people living with chronic pain are from lower-income communities and may not have access to advanced medical care, leaving them to deal with their chronic pain alone and without proper treatment. When treated, opioids are the most common option, however current concerns with addiction have highlighted the need for complementary and alternative treatment approaches. Previous research has found that with increased self-efficacy, a person with chronic pain could feel more control of their ability to complete tasks whether or not pain is present. Increasing a person’s self-efficacy can also help them develop better coping strategies and adapt to their pain as they experience it. One way to increase self-efficacy is through using imagery. Through guided imagery sessions, people with chronic pain have reported less pain in their target areas and have increased self-efficacy, increased quality of life, and decreased pain. As imagery is affordable, accessible, and safe, people from any socioeconomic status should be able to take advantage of this treatment, making imagery an important part of the current public health discussion on treatment for chronic pain.