Rehabilitation management of chronic pain syndromes

Abstract

Chronic pain is an often misdiagnosed and poorly understood problem. Pain complaints are the most frequently reported symptom to physicians and nurse practitioners. Unremitting pain can have an adverse effect physically, psychologically, and socially. When chronic pain is not relieved, anger, frustration, and depression can lead to maladaptive behaviors that interfere with the person's ability to pursue goals and activities. Chronic pain is best treated through a multidisciplinary approach, with best results achieved by programs specialized in pain management. The goal of rehabilitation in chronic pain management is not total pain relief because this is often impossible; restoration of the ability to function productively and satisfyingly is the target goal.