Early Experience of a Multidisciplinary Group Pain Program with Cognitive Behavioural Strategies, Physiotherapy and Peer Support for Patients with Chronic Noncancer Pain

Abstract

BackgroundChronic non-cancer pain affects about 20% of the population worldwide. The effect of medical treatment in isolation is often limited. A multidisciplinary approach has been strongly advocated to help manage patients' pain more effectively. AimsThe primary purpose was to reduce pain severity, pain interference on patients’daily activities and improve their levels of self-efficacy despite pain. The secondary aim was to evaluate the possible changes in patients’ depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms after amultidisciplinary group pain program. The program content and structure were also evaluated. DesignThis scholarly project used within-subject pre- and post-test design. Settings/SubjectsFifty-six patients were recruited from the project center pain clinic. MethodsAn evidence-based eight-hour multidisciplinary group pain program was implemented. Data was collected before and 3 months after the program. InterventionsThe program covered pain physiology, cognitive behavioural strategies, demonstration of various exercises, self-management skills, medication management, and peer support. ResultsThree months postprogram, there was a statistically significant improvement in patients’ pain severity (β = −0.9, 95% CI: −1.73 to −0.14, p = .023) and self-efficacy (β = 5.6, 95% CI: 0.85 to 10.41, p = .023). Pain interference on their daily activities was also significantly reduced (β = −2.0, 95% CI: −2.90 to −0.83, p = .001). Patients provided positive and encouraging feedback about the program. ConclusionInitial improvements in patients’ ability to cope with pain and to perform daily activities were demonstrated following participation in the brief multidisciplinary group pain program. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm that the results are due to patients’ participation in the program.