Application of Pain Neuroscience Education to a Patient with Multiple Chronic Pain Sites A Case Report
Year: 2023
Type: dissertation
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Background: Pain is a universal experience that everyone will experience throughout their lifetime. However, chronic pain lasting beyond normative tissue healing time is not normal and should be addressed as such. Pain neuroscience education is utilized by physical therapists to treat patients struggling with chronic pain by educating them on neurobiological and neurophysiological mechanisms of pain. Case Description: The patient is a 26-year-old male who presented to an outpatient physical therapy clinical with a referral for neck pain, back pain, fatigue, and pain in unspecified joint. The patient reported high pain ratings and was notable limited in spine range of motion as well as decreased strength globally. The patient also demonstrated positive special tests for meniscal pathology and imaging revealed a torn ACL and meniscus on his right knee. Intervention: In addition to traditional therapies including exercise and manual techniques, PNE was utilized throughout this patient’s plan of care. Education included pain mechanisms, central sensitization, increased sensitivity, reconceptualizing pain constructs, and the impact of the biopsychosocial model. Outcomes: The patient demonstrated improvements in all range of motion and strength at the conclusion of this episode of care. Functional outcome measures of the NDI and ODI demonstrated statistically significant decreases as well. Discussion: Traditional therapies utilized in conjunction with intentional PNE can improve patient function, reduce pain, and positively impact healthcare utilization by decreasing expenditure. This case report also analyzes the impact of patient personal beliefs and preconceived notions of pain and how PNE can assist in reconceptualizing pain to effectively treat the patient and improve patient outcomes.
Author: Colgan, Tyler
Institution: University of Iowa
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223591306