Abstract
Neuromodulation (spinal cord and peripheral nerve stimulation) for the treatment of chronic pain requires an understanding of the physiologic as well as the psychological basis of chronic pain. Although physiologic pathways of pain are based on gate control theory and may be amenable to spinal cord stimulation, psychological factors inherent to the patient are powerful predictors of whether this treatment modality is likely to succeed. The biopsychosocial model of pain frames an approach for psychological evaluation of the patient prior to employing neuromodulation. This biopsychosocial approach includes a general assessment of pain intensity, disability, and medication use; emotional factors and assessment of mood; personality factors; and pain-related behaviors and coping strategies. This chapter reviews the initial development of these assessment tools for outcome prediction among patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery, summarizes the evolving literature related to the use of these screening tools in predicting spinal cord stimulation outcomes, and highlights potential future directions related to patient screening prior to neuromodulation procedures. Familiarity with these assessment instruments is essential for any pain management clinician considering the use of neuromodulation therapies and is necessary prior to proceeding with trial or permanent implantation of these devices.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
