Occupational therapists’ perspectives on current practice in chronic pain and sleep disturbances

Abstract

Background Chronic pain and sleep disturbances are often co-morbid. Sleep disturbances can negatively affect self-care occupations, cognition, mood, emotional functioning and physical wellbeing. Aim To explore occupational therapists’ experience working with clients with chronic pain and sleep difficulties. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 occupational therapists with experience working with clients with sleep disturbances and chronic pain. Findings The relationship between sleep disturbances and chronic pain was described as being complex and multifaceted. Participants believed they were uniquely placed to work with clients experiencing these two conditions. They felt inadequately equipped to treat sleep disturbances and chronic pain. Participants indicated that best practice required multiple interventions and a team-based approach. Finally, the participants noted that sleep disturbances and chronic pain are a growing area of practice. Conclusion The findings suggest that occupational therapists tailor their intervention strategies to be early, multi-pronged and individualised. Institutional barriers need to be addressed to further develop occupational therapists’ skill set when working in the areas of sleep and chronic pain. Further research to support the interventions currently used in practice to treat these two conditions is needed.