psychological interventions influence patients attitudes and beliefs about their chronic pain a 6 month follow up

Abstract Background and Aim: Chronic pain is a complex phenomenon influenced by biological, psychological and social factors. The assessment of treatment programs is mandatory in order to sustain a good quality of life. Therefore, this non-randomized study aimed to assess the 6-mon th follow-up effects in a tertiary pain center of our clinical practice. Methods: Biopsychosocial-based group treatments investigated pain perception self-assessment scale (NRS), Hospital Anxiety and Depre ssion Scale (HADS) and the Survey of Pain Attitudes-35 (SOPA-35) questionnaires in chronic pain patients. Ninety-one patients were assigned to receive a 6 group-sessions of self-hypnosis/self-care (n=23) or 6 group-sessions of selfhypnosis/self-care combined with 8-10 group-sessions of psychoeducation (n=68). Questionnaires were administrated before and after treatment and at 6-month follow-up. Results: Our main results showed a significant effect of both treatments on control, disability and medical cure of the SOPA-35 sub scales as well as a significant effect on anxiety and depression levels. The subscale solicitude of the SOPA-35 showed a significant decrease only at 6-month follow-up. Furthermore, all other significant effects observed lasted at 6-month followup. Discussion: The present findings are encouraging as they show remaining treatment effects after group interventions, meaning that even without monthly support, the patients seem to be able to apply acquired strategies in their daily life. In a context of socio-economic crisis, it is essential to develop approaches with a long-term effectiveness combined with a low cost for patients. Keywords Self-hypnosis; Self-care; Psychoeducation; Chronic pain; Follow-up Abbreviations ACT: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; CHU: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire; HADS: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; NRS: Numerical Rating Scale; SOPA-35: Survey of Pain Attitudes-35; WLC: Waiting List Control Group