Rheumatology Medical News about Osteoarthritis, Psychosocial, Pain

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Psychosocial factors and the pain experience of osteoarthritis patients: New findings and new direction
Current Opinion in Rheumatology, 08/18/09

Somers TJ et al. – Review concludes that several psychosocial variables can influence osteoarthritis (OA) pain and disability; psychosocial interventions may decrease osteoarthritis pain and disability.

Methods

Article reviews recent psychosocial research in the area of pain related to OA:
- Studies of psychosocial factors that can influence OA pain
- Research testing the efficacy of psychosocial treatments for OA pain is summarized

Results

Asking OA pts to recall pain experiences may not be as accurate as having them keep daily pain records
New studies support the notion that fatigue and increased weight are linked to higher OA pain
OA pts who report higher levels of depression are more prone to report increased pain
Social factors such as:
- Ethnic background
- Ability to communicate pain to others, and
- Participation in social activities
  can influence OA pain and disability
Cognitions about pain are also related to pain in pts with OA
Recent studies suggest that psychosocial interventions (i.e. self-management programs, exercise) can decrease OA pain and disability