Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Communication
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Psychology of Chronic Pain Management course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Ablation refers to a medical procedure that involves the removal or destr… #
Related terms include neuroablation and radiofrequency ablation. In the context of chronic pain management, ablation can be used to target specific nerves or areas of the body that are causing pain. For example, a patient with chronic back pain may undergo a procedure to ablate the nerves that are transmitting pain signals to the brain.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of psychotherapy that f… #
Related terms include mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy. ACT is often used to treat chronic pain, as it can help individuals develop a greater sense of acceptance and tolerance for their pain, rather than trying to avoid or escape it. For example, a patient with chronic pain may learn to practice mindfulness and acceptance of their pain, rather than trying to avoid activities that trigger pain.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the i… #
Related terms include acupressure and meridian. Acupuncture is often used to treat chronic pain, as it can help to stimulate the release of endogenous opioids and other pain-relieving chemicals in the body. For example, a patient with chronic back pain may undergo acupuncture to help stimulate healing and reduce pain.
Adjuvant therapy refers to a type of treatment that is used in addition t… #
Related terms include complementary therapy and alternative therapy. In the context of chronic pain management, adjuvant therapy may include treatments such as physical therapy or occupational therapy to help improve function and reduce pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may undergo physical therapy to help improve their mobility and reduce pain.
Analgesia refers to the relief of pain, which can be achieved through a v… #
Related terms include anesthesia and pain management. In the context of chronic pain management, analgesia may involve the use of medications such as opioids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may be prescribed an opioid medication to help manage their pain.
Anesthesia refers to a state of numbness or loss of sensation, which can… #
Related terms include analgesia and sedation. In the context of chronic pain management, anesthesia may be used to help reduce pain during medical procedures or to help manage pain in patients who are undergoing surgery. For example, a patient with chronic pain may be given a local anesthetic to help numb the area during a surgical procedure.
Anticonvulsant medications are a type of medication that is primarily use… #
Related terms include antiepileptic drugs and neuropathic pain. Anticonvulsant medications can help to reduce pain by stabilizing abnormal electrical activity in the nervous system. For example, a patient with chronic neuropathic pain may be prescribed an anticonvulsant medication to help reduce their pain.
Assessment refers to the process of evaluating an individual's condition,… #
Related terms include evaluation and diagnosis. In the context of chronic pain management, assessment is an important step in developing an effective treatment plan. For example, a patient with chronic pain may undergo a comprehensive assessment to identify the underlying causes of their pain and develop a treatment plan.
Biofeedback refers to a type of therapy that involves the use of elect… #
Related terms include neurofeedback and mind-body therapy. Biofeedback can be used to help individuals learn to control their physiological responses and reduce pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may undergo biofeedback therapy to learn how to relax and reduce their pain.
Cancer pain refers to pain that is associated with cancer or its t… #
Related terms include oncology and palliative care. Cancer pain can be complex and challenging to manage, and may require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. For example, a patient with cancer may experience pain due to the tumor itself, or due to treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.
Chronic pain refers to pain that persists for an extended period of time,… #
Related terms include acute pain and subacute pain. Chronic pain can be challenging to manage, and may require a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of pain. For example, a patient with chronic back pain may require a treatment plan that includes physical therapy, medications, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Cognitive #
behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their pain. Related terms include cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation. CBT can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as it can help individuals develop more adaptive coping strategies and improve their overall quality of life. For example, a patient with chronic pain may learn to challenge negative thoughts and behaviors that exacerbate their pain.
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a type of chronic pain disorder… #
Related terms include reflex sympathetic dystrophy and causalgia. CRPS can be challenging to diagnose and treat, and may require a multidisciplinary approach to management. For example, a patient with CRPS may require a treatment plan that includes medications, physical therapy, and psychotherapy.
Complementary therapy refers to a type of treatment that is used in addit… #
Related terms include alternative therapy and integrative medicine. Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or massage, can be used to help manage chronic pain and improve overall quality of life. For example, a patient with chronic pain may undergo acupuncture or massage therapy to help reduce their pain and improve their mood.
Coping skills refer to the strategies and techniques that individu… #
Related terms include resilience and self-efficacy. Developing effective coping skills is an important aspect of chronic pain management, as it can help individuals better manage their pain and improve their overall quality of life. For example, a patient with chronic pain may learn to use deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to help manage their pain.
Depression refers to a mental health condition that is characterized by <… #
Related terms include anxiety and mood disorder. Depression is a common comorbidity with chronic pain, and can make it more challenging to manage pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain and depression may require a treatment plan that includes antidepressant medications and psychotherapy.
Dysphoria refers to a state of unease, dissatisfaction, or discomfort #
Related terms include anxiety and depression. Dysphoria can be a common experience for individuals with chronic pain, and can make it more challenging to manage pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may experience dysphoria due to the impact of their pain on their daily life and relationships.
Endogenous opioids refer to the natural pain #
relieving chemicals that are produced by the body. Related terms include endorphins and enkephalins. Endogenous opioids can play an important role in chronic pain management, as they can help to reduce pain and improve mood. For example, a patient with chronic pain may engage in activities that stimulate the release of endogenous opioids, such as exercise or laughter.
Fibromyalgia is a type of chronic pain disorder that is characterized by… #
Related terms include myalgia and arthritis. Fibromyalgia can be challenging to diagnose and treat, and may require a multidisciplinary approach to management. For example, a patient with fibromyalgia may require a treatment plan that includes medications, physical therapy, and psychotherapy.
Gate control theory refers to a neurological theory that explains how the… #
Related terms include nociception and neurotransmission. The gate control theory suggests that certain types of sensory input, such as touch or vibration, can close the "gates" to the brain and reduce pain perception. For example, a patient with chronic pain may use transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to stimulate the release of pain-relieving chemicals and reduce pain.
Headache refers to pain or discomfort in the head or neck r… #
Related terms include migraine and tension headache. Headaches can be a common experience for individuals with chronic pain, and can be challenging to manage. For example, a patient with chronic headaches may require a treatment plan that includes medications, lifestyle modifications, and relaxation techniques.
Hyperalgesia refers to an increased sensitivity to pain stimuli #
Related terms include allodynia and hyperpathia. Hyperalgesia can be a common experience for individuals with chronic pain, and can make it more challenging to manage pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may experience hyperalgesia due to the sensitization of nociceptive pathways.
Interdisciplinary collaboration refers to the process of working together… #
Related terms include multidisciplinary care and team-based care. Interdisciplinary collaboration is an important aspect of chronic pain management, as it can help to ensure that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. For example, a patient with chronic pain may work with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, physical therapists, and psychologists, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Mind #
body therapy refers to a type of therapy that focuses on the interconnection between the mind and body. Related terms include mindfulness and meditation. Mind-body therapy can be used to help individuals manage chronic pain, as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall well-being. For example, a patient with chronic pain may practice yoga or meditation to help manage their pain and improve their mood.
Neuropathic pain refers to pain that is caused by nerve damage or… #
Related terms include neuralgia and neurogenic pain. Neuropathic pain can be challenging to manage, and may require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. For example, a patient with neuropathic pain may require a treatment plan that includes medications, physical therapy, and psychotherapy.
Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to change and a… #
Related terms include synaptic plasticity and neural adaptation. Neuroplasticity can play an important role in chronic pain management, as it can help to explain how the brain processes and adapts to pain signals. For example, a patient with chronic pain may undergo neurofeedback training to help rewire their brain and reduce pain.
Non #
steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a type of medication that can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Related terms include ibuprofen and naproxen. NSAIDs can be used to manage chronic pain, but may have side effects and interact with other medications. For example, a patient with chronic pain may be prescribed an NSAID to help reduce their pain and inflammation.
Opioid medications are a type of medication that can be used to reduce <i… #
Related terms include morphine and codeine. Opioid medications can be effective for managing chronic pain, but may have side effects and risks, such as addiction and dependence. For example, a patient with chronic pain may be prescribed an opioid medication to help manage their pain, but may require close monitoring and follow-up to minimize risks.
Pain assessment refers to the process of evaluating an individual's pa… #
Related terms include pain measurement and pain evaluation. Pain assessment is an important step in developing an effective treatment plan for chronic pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may undergo a comprehensive pain assessment to identify the underlying causes of their pain and develop a treatment plan.
Pain management refers to the process of preventing, reducing, or allevia… #
Related terms include pain treatment and pain relief. Pain management can involve a range of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, including medications, physical therapy, and psychotherapy. For example, a patient with chronic pain may work with a healthcare team to develop a comprehensive pain management plan that addresses their physical, emotional, and social needs.
Palliative care refers to the type of care that focuses on providing reli… #
Related terms include hospice care and end-of-life care. Palliative care can be an important aspect of chronic pain management, as it can help to improve the quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses. For example, a patient with terminal cancer may receive palliative care to help manage their pain and improve their overall well-being.
Physical therapy refers to the type of therapy that focuses on helping in… #
Related terms include occupational therapy and rehabilitation. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as it can help to improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and enhance overall physical function. For example, a patient with chronic back pain may undergo physical therapy to help improve their mobility and reduce pain.
Psychological factors refer to the emotional , cognitive , and be… #
Related terms include stress, anxiety, and depression. Psychological factors can play an important role in chronic pain management, as they can influence an individual's perception of pain and their ability to cope with pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may experience anxiety or depression that exacerbates their pain, and may require psychological interventions to address these factors.
Quality of life refers to an individual's overall sense of well #
being and satisfaction with their life. Related terms include functional status and health-related quality of life. Quality of life is an important consideration in chronic pain management, as it can be impacted by the presence of chronic pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may experience reduced quality of life due to the impact of their pain on their daily activities and relationships.
Relaxation techniques refer to the methods used to help individuals reduc… #
Related terms include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation. Relaxation techniques can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as they can help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. For example, a patient with chronic pain may practice deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to help manage their pain and improve their mood.
Self #
efficacy refers to an individual's confidence in their ability to manage their pain and improve their overall well-being. Related terms include self-esteem and resilience. Self-efficacy can play an important role in chronic pain management, as it can influence an individual's motivation and ability to adhere to a treatment plan. For example, a patient with chronic pain may develop self-efficacy by learning to manage their pain and improve their overall well-being.
Sensitization refers to the process by which the nervous system be… #
Related terms include hyperalgesia and
Spinal cord stimulation refers to a type of therapy that involves the use… #
Related terms include neurostimulation and implantable devices. Spinal cord stimulation can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as it can help to reduce pain by interrupting pain signals to the brain. For example, a patient with chronic back pain may undergo spinal cord stimulation to help reduce their pain.
Stress refers to the physical , emotional , and psychological … #
Related terms include anxiety and depression. Stress can play an important role in chronic pain management, as it can exacerbate pain and reduce an individual's ability to cope with pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may experience stress due to the impact of their pain on their daily life and relationships.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) refers to a type of therap… #
Related terms include neurostimulation and electrotherapy. TENS can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as it can help to reduce pain by interrupting pain signals to the brain. For example, a patient with chronic back pain may use TENS to help reduce their pain.
Visualization refers to the process of using mental imagery to … #
Related terms include guided imagery and mindfulness. Visualization can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. For example, a patient with chronic pain may practice visualization to help manage their pain and improve their mood.
Wellness refers to an individual's overall state of physical , e… #
Related terms include health and quality of life. Wellness is an important consideration in chronic pain management, as it can be impacted by the presence of chronic pain. For example, a patient with chronic pain may experience reduced wellness due to the impact of their pain on their daily activities and relationships.
Yoga refers to a type of exercise that combines physical postures ,… #
Related terms include mind-body therapy and alternative therapy. Yoga can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve flexibility and range of motion, and promote relaxation. For example, a patient with chronic pain may practice yoga to help manage their pain and improve their overall well-being.