PAIN-BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL MODEL

SUMMARY

1. Accept the patient’s pain is real.

2. Avoid excessive, unnecessary invasive procedures and investigations.

3. Set realistic goals: not trying to cure pain.

4. Evaluate the patient’s level of function: set realistic goals, pacing, organize work activities and word the obstacle of pain.

5. Prescribe pain medication on a time-contingency basis rather than as required (taking medications as required tends to reinforce the pain behavior).

6. Prescribe an exercise program for reconditioning and to prevent deconditioning.

7. Educate the patient and family.

8. Help the patient get involved in recreational and pleasurable activities.

9. Restore normal sleep pattern.

10. Investigate and treat depression.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.