Psychological challenges in treating chronic hip pain

Abstract

Pain is a summary subjective experience of physical pathology, social setting, and a patient’s unique pattern of thoughts, memories, values, and emotions. This chapter proposes that treatment outcomes can be enhanced by a comprehensive assessment of these factors. Since little research has been done on the unique impact of these factors on posterior hip disorders, a review is provided of related research on the impact of psychosocial factors on back pain, spine surgery, and orthopedic surgery including joint replacement. A model for assessment with psychological testing and treatment is proposed.