Long-term effects of integrated cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain: A qualitative and quantitative study

Abstract

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is known to improve chronic pain management. However, past studies revealed only small to moderate benefits in short-term results, and long-term follow-up studies are lacking. This study aimed to follow an integrated CBT program's effectiveness 1.5 years after its completion. This observational study was the follow-up on the data collected from our CBT sessions conducted under 3 different studies in 2018 to 2019. Seven assessment items (Numerical Rating Scale, Pain Catastrophizing Scale [PCS], Pain Disability Assessment Scale [PDAS], Patient Health Questionnaire-9 items, Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7, European quality of life 5-dimensions 5-level, and Beck Depression Inventory [BDI]) were statistically analyzed. Thematic analysis was conducted in semi structured interviews. PCS (F=6.52, P=.003), PDAS (F=5.68, P=.01), European quality of life 5-dimensions 5-level (F=3.82, P=.03), and BDI (F=4.61, P=.01) exhibited significant changes (P.1). In the qualitative study, the analysis revealed 3 subthemes: "Autonomy,""Understanding of yourself and pain,"and "Acceptance of pain."Our study suggests that integrated CBT may reduce the scores of PCS, PDAS and BDI, and this effect lasts for at least 1 year. Identified themes support the relevance of mitigative factors in managing chronic pain.