Spiritual Dimensions of Pain and Suffering

Abstract

Pain is a multidimensional, complex experience. It is often a struggle to adequately identify and meet the needs of patients experiencing pain in a biopsychosocial-spiritual context. In this chapter we explore the relationship between the spiritual dimensions of suffering and the experience of physical pain. By intertwining research with clinical case studies, the chapter reviews definitions, the relationship between spiritual anguish and physical pain, and finally interdisciplinary and evidence-based approaches to alleviating suffering .