Modificações dos papéis ocupacionais de mulheres com dor crônica e Artrite Reumatoide, comparada a mulheres saudáveis

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the occupational roles of women with chronic pain caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and to compare these performance standards with those of healthy subjects. It is a cross-sectional, exploratory and comparative study. Participants were divided into 2 groups. For the RA group, two validated questionnaires were applied: Visual Analog Scale and the Occupational Roles List, clinical and demographic data. In the control group, the personal information sheet and the Occupational Role List were applied. The control group was matched in age and sociodemographic level. A total of 164 women participated in the study, of which 82 were women with chronic pain and rheumatoid arthritis, with a mean age of 55.9 ± 11.2 years, and 82 healthy and matched women. In the RA group (GAR), 48% of the participants in the work activities were lost, but the roles of caregiver (68%), household chores (89%), friend (74%), family member (93%), and religious (60%), remained in the process of becoming ill. In the control group (CG), the maintenance of most occupational roles is observed. In the comparison between both groups, a statistically significant difference was found in student, worker, volunteer, friend and passer/amateur roles. The occupational roles of women with chronic pain caused by RA are modified by illness and pain. When compared to healthy women, it is observed that the student, worker, volunteer and hobby/amateur roles are no longer performed due to illness. This influence is not dependent on pain intensity since no difference was found between participants with RA and levels of severity other than pain.

Non-pharmaceutical Methods for Pain Management: An Occupational Therapist’s Perspective on Chronic Pain

“…A few examples of chronic pain are cancer, back problems, arthritis, nerve damage, or symptoms related to stroke (Vendrusculo-Fangel, Leles, Moura, Marqueti, & Fangel 2019;Hadlandsmyth, et al, 2018). Pain is not subjective and does not discriminate; however, age is one of the most critical components associated with chronic pain (Stensland & Saunders, 2018).…”

“…Older adults who acquire an unforeseen condition that leaves behind chronic pain can completely change how they initially envisioned their current work situation, retirement, leisure activities and more. Chronic pain leads to a loss of social roles, inability to fulfill work roles, unmet expectations of the future, and dreams that feel unachievable due to limited mobility (Vendrusculo-Fangel, et al, 2019;Domenichiello & Ramsden, 2019;Dahlhamer, et al, 2018). Another big concern from older adults living with chronic pain is the appearance of being old or helpless, or appearing like they have a deficit by using back braces, canes, or other assistive devices (Stensland & Sanders, 2018).…”