Comparative efficacy of three psychotherapeutic interventions (CBSM, ACT, relaxation) for patients with chronic pain

Abstract

Objective : Patients with chronic pain could have lot of stress, depression, and reduced quality of life. Many studies showed the efficacy of CBSM (Cognitive Behavioral Stress Management) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) for patients with chronic disease. We would like to compare the efficacy of those therapy to a control group (relaxation), for chronic pain patients. Method : Three psychotherapeutic interventions groups (CBSM/ACT/relaxation) had been tested during a 10-week session, among 60 patients with chronic pain. The efficacy of those groups has been compared, evaluating the quality of life (SF-12), level of pain (EVA), stress (PSS), rumination and coping (FABQ). Results : CBSM and ACT interventions learn to patients what is stress, coping, cognitive distorsions and rational thought replacement, social support and assertiveness. They both have an efficacy to enhance quality of life and reduce pain, stress and rumination, compare to the control group relaxation. Conclusion : Those interventions reduce stress, pain and enhance quality of life for chronic pain patients. We would like to developp those techniques in France to other patients.