Impact of recurrent and chronic pain on child and family daily functioning: a critical review of the literature

Abstract

The author reviewed the current status of research on the impact of recurrent and chronic pain on everyday functioning of children and families and organized the research findings around the specific life contexts (e.g., school, peers) that may be affected by pain. Although findings demonstrate that many different aspects of child and family life are affected by pain, the prevalence and severity of children's functional limitations associated with pain remain unknown. Few treatment studies for pediatric recurrent and chronic pain have focused on enhancing children's functioning. It has been shown, however, that functional outcomes can be improved by cognitive-behavioral interventions. Recommendations for research on functional outcomes and implications for clinical practice are discussed.