Abstract
Over the past 20 years our knowledge about evidence-based psychological interventions for pediatric chronic pain has dramatically increased. Overall, the evidence in support of psychological interventions for pediatric chronic pain is strong, demonstrating positive psychological and behavioral effects for a variety of children with a range of pain conditions. However, wide scale access to effective psychologically-based pain management treatments remains a challenge for many children who suffer with pain. Increasing access to care and reducing persistent biomedical biases that inhibit attainment of psychological services are a central focus of current pain treatment interventions. Additionally, as the number of evidence-based treatments increase, tailoring treatments to a child or family’s particular needs is increasingly possible. This article will (1) discuss the theoretical frameworks as well as the specific psychological skills and strategies that currently hold promise as effective agents of change; (2) review and summarize trends in the development of well-researched outpatient interventions over the past ten years; and (3) discuss future directions for intervention research on pediatric chronic pain.
Highlights
Current estimates suggest that up to one in four children will have an episode of chronic pain lasting three months or longer [1]
Interventions based in the foundational theories of cognitive behavioral, biobehavioral, and acceptance-based models of care currently encompass the majority of psychological interventions for children and adolescents with pain
We briefly review the most common outpatient intervention frameworks cited in the last ten years (2005–2015), highlighting how a variety of skills and strategies may be applied in helping children, adolescents, and parents in the management of pediatric pain
Summary
Current estimates suggest that up to one in four children will have an episode of chronic pain lasting three months or longer [1]. Frequency and duration compared to standard medical care waitlist control at 1-, 2- and 3-month follow-up. Reduced pain intensity and frequency compared to standard medical care at 1-year follow-up. Reduced pain intensity and functional disability compared to standard medical care wait-list control at post-treatment and 3-month follow-up. Functional disability and improved QOL for audio exercises compared to standard medical care alone at post-treatment and 6-month follow-up. Improved JIA-related knowledge and average weekly pain intensity compared to internet intervention control group at post-treatment. Functional disability and depressive symptoms in CBT group and Fibromyalgia Education group at post-treatment. Search Terms: pediatric/child/adolescent chronic pain + intervention; CBT; biobehavioral; cognitive behavioral; education; psychoeducation; parent training; hypnotherapy; pain coping; mindfulness; acceptance; internet; telehealth; group.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
