The Effectiveness of Nonpharmacological Modalities on Quality of Life and Daily Function in Adults With Chronic Pain Syndrome.

Abstract

Prescription pain medications are effective in short-term use, but often are heavily relied on in the treatment of chronic pain. Long-term use of prescription pain medications carries a higher risk for dependence. Nonpharmacologic therapies are preferred for treatment of chronic pain. The objective was to measure the patient's level of confidence for daily function and their ability to assist in their care with a pre/postintervention assessment tool. The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire was used to assess confidence levels in daily activities of living prior to and following the intervention. A convenience sample was comprised of 58 patients with chronic pain from a pain management clinic. There was a 4.84% change from pretest to posttest in general confidence levels. The mean difference of 1.448 was found to not be statistically significant between the pretest and posttest. Patients exhibited same quality of life, required the same prescription pain medications, demonstrated the same functional capacity, and the same restoration of function in both pretest and posttest conditions. Initiating alternative methods for reduction of chronic pain early in the treatment process should foster patient confidence and provide resources to manage daily pain.