Impact of psychological factors in the experience of pain

Abstract

This article reviews the role of psychological factors in the development of persistentpain and disability, with a focus on how basic psychological processes have beenincorporated into theoretical models that have implications for physical therapy. Tothis end, the key psychological factors associated with the experience of pain aresummarized, and an overview of how they have been integrated into the majormodels of pain and disability in the scientific literature is presented. Pain has clearemotional and behavioral consequences that influence the development of persistentproblems and the outcome of treatment. Yet, these psychological factors are notroutinely assessed in physical therapy clinics, nor are they sufficiently utilized toenhance treatment. Based on a review of the scientific evidence, a set of 10 principlesthat have likely implications for clinical practice is offered. Because psychologicalprocesses have an influence on both the experience of pain and the treatmentoutcome, the integration of psychological principles into physical therapy treatmentwould seem to have potential to enhance outcomes. © 2011 American Physical Therapy Association.