The Role of Childhood Trauma, PTSD Symptoms and Pain Coping Strategies in Individuals with Chronic and Acute Pain: A Strength-Based Approach

Abstract

Purpose: While links between chronic pain and childhood trauma or PTSD symptoms are well-established, less is known about how these factors are related in individuals experiencing different types of pain. This study explores associations among childhood trauma, PTSD symptoms, and pain coping strategies interact in individuals with chronic versus acute pain. Methods: A total of 159 participants (chronic and acute pain groups) completed an online survey assessing childhood trauma pain coping strategies and current PTSD symptoms. Correlations between variables within each group, and differences between chronic and acute pain groups were evaluated using z-tests. Results: Pain intensity was positively associated with childhood trauma, particularly emotional (r =.32) and physical abuse (r =.24). PTSD symptoms, specifically re-experiencing (r =.29) and hyperarousal (r =.28) were also linked to greater pain intensity. Adaptive coping strategies like distraction and coping self-statements were negatively associated with pain intensity. These strategies showed stronger negative correlations with childhood trauma and PTSD symptoms in the chronic pain group (z = − 2.57 to z = 5.43), suggesting more complex coping dynamics. Associations between trauma, PTSD symptoms, and pain were more pronounced in chronic pain sufferers. Conclusions: These results have important clinical implications, emphasising the need for trauma-informed care in pain management interventions. Further research should explore effective strategies for managing the intersection of pain and trauma, particularly in chronic pain populations.