Positive Health Online

Abstract

RAICHLE and COLLEAGUES,  Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, 98195-6490, USA. raichlek@u.washington.edu [Review] [81 refs] the literature regarding psychosocial processes, cognitive, affective, and behavioural, that have emerged as influential to the experience, impact, and treatment of pain.

Background

Dysvascular and diabetic patients are faced with high rates of chronic pain as a consequence of numerous secondary sequelae, including diabetic neuropathy and limb loss. Researchers and scientists have put forth a tremendous amount of effort to understand the complex nature of pain in this population of individuals, as well as others with chronic pain secondary to illness and injury.

Methodology

The emergent understanding of anatomy and sensory physiology within the past century has fuelled an initial focus of understanding pain from a purely neurological and biochemical perspective.

Results

Over the past few decades, the field has moved toward an understanding of pain as a process involving the dynamic interaction of biologic, psychological, behavioural, and social variables.

Conclusion

This article provides a brief overview of several psychosocial processes, cognitive, affective, and behavioural, that have emerged as influential to the experience, impact, and treatment of pain. [References: 81]

References

Raichle KA, Osborne TL and Jensen MP. Psychosocial factors in chronic pain in the dysvascular and diabetic patient. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinics of North America. 20(4): 705-17. Nov 2009. [Review] [81 refs]