Chronic Pain and Psychological Interventions: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background and Aim: Chronic pain is an emotional experience with unpleasant psychological consequences for individuals and society. This research aims to systematically review the psychological interventions implemented in people suffering from chronic pain. Methods and Materials/Patients: In this systematic review, the following keywords were searched in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases: Chronic pain, psychological interventions, psychotherapy, psychology, clinical trials, and randomized clinical trials. The time span for the search was from January 2018 to December 2022. From a total of 2785 articles, 20 articles by 2078 contributors were selected for this review. Results: Cognitive behavioral therapy ranks first among psychological interventions for people with chronic pain. Also, to improve the quality of life and psychological health of these individuals from other psychological interventions, such as acceptance and commitment therapy, the mindfulness method has been used. This treatment has been effective in relieving pain, controlling pain, reducing stress and depression, and improving the quality of life. Using a randomized controlled trial design and follow-up were the strengths of these studies. Conclusion: The findings suggest that psychological interventions had the greatest impact on pain relief, quality of life, depression, and stress, respectively. Accordingly, it is proposed to use psychological interventions in addition to medical treatment.