Acceptance of Chronic Neuropathic Pain in Spinal Cord Injured Persons: A Qualitative Approach

作者:Henwood Penelope; Ellis Jacqueline*; Logan Jo; Dubouloz Claire Jehanne; D' Eon Joyce
来源:Pain Management Nursing, 2012, 13(4): 215-222.
DOI:10.1016/j.pmn.2010.05.005

摘要

Chronic neuropathic pain (CNP) in spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant problem that has physical, functional, and psychosocial repercussions beyond the consequences of SCI. The notion that acceptance may be a viable alternative to suffering when resolution of pain is unattainable was explored. Studies indicate that acceptance of pain is associated with lower pain intensity, less pain-related anxiety and avoidance, less depression, less physical and psychosocial disability, more daily active time, and improved work status in patients who have other types of chronic pain. This exploratory qualitative study examined acceptance of pain in SCI individuals who have CNP. Grounded theory was used to develop a conceptual framework to describe acceptance in people with CNP and SCI. Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with seven SCI individuals. Six phases were identified, including: %26quot;comprehending the perplexity of CNP,%26apos;%26apos; %26quot;seeking pain resolution,%26apos;%26apos; %26quot;acknowledging pain permanence,%26apos;%26apos; %26quot;redefining core %26quot;values,%26apos;%26apos; %26quot;learning to live with the pain,%26apos;%26apos; and %26quot;integrating pain.%26apos;%26apos; Two driving forces, %26quot;increasing independence%26apos;%26apos; and %26quot;evolving pain view,%26apos;%26apos; were noted tomove the process of acceptance forward. The findings in this study suggest that acceptance of pain appeared to be beneficial in terms of reducing suffering and facilitating a more satisfying and fulfilling life in these SCI individuals. A decreased emphasis on continued searching for a cure for CNP and movement toward a self-management approach was associatedwith increased pain coping for these SCI individuals. Clinical implications suggest that early intervention to facilitate effective coping and an exploration of the notion of acceptance could be beneficial.

  • 出版日期2012-12