Perceptions of functioning and quality of life outcomes from a 3-week pain rehabilitation program

Abstract

Background: Chronic pain is a major public health concern, and rates of long-term prescription opiates in the United States have been exceedingly high. Alternatively, interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation programs are based on functional restoration with a biopsychosocial emphasis. This study evaluates outcomes from an intensive outpatient pain rehabilitation program incorporating physical reconditioning, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and opiate withdrawal. Methods: Participants in this study will include 298 patients who completed the Mayo Clinic 3-Week Comprehensive Pain Rehabilitation Program. Survey measures on functioning and quality of life were completed at admission, discharge, and 6 months posttreatment. Findings: Preliminary data analysis suggests that patients reported significantly improved outcomes for pain interference, F(2,88) = 22.99, p < .001, quality of life, F(2,88) = 18.32, p < .001, pain catastrophizing, F(2,88) = 23.97, p < .001, and depressed mood, F(2,88) = 29.42, p < .001. Importantly, these improvements remained significant at 6-month follow up. Discussion: The data presented add to growing research supporting functional restoration and cognitive-behavioral approaches for chronic pain. This treatment approach will be presented along with recommendations for future research.