Effects of Pain-Related Features, Maladaptive Cognitions, Depression, and Anxiety on Pain-Related Disability: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Aim: The goals of this study to contribute to an evolving understanding of the interplay between cognitive and affective factors in chronic pain, providing valuable insights for advancing treatment models at the intersection of psychiatry and pain medicine. This approach may enable medical professionals to customize interventions that target the most important facets of managing chronic pain while meeting the demands of specific patients. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 440 patients with chronic pain in pain medicine clinics between February and June 2023. Demographic, health-related, and medical characteristics were comprehensively assessed alongside the Graded Chronic Pain Scale-Revised, Pain Anxiety Symptoms Scale, Pain Disability Questionnaire, Beck Anxiety Scale, and Beck Depression Scale. Results: Beyond the range of pain severity rates, the regression model showed that elevated levels of pain overthinking, fear and avoidance beliefs, higher depression scores, catastrophizing thoughts, and nonsmoking status were significant factors impacting painrelated disability. Conclusion: This study highlights integrative treatment modalities that address not only the physical dimensions of chronic pain but also its complex psychological aspects. A comprehensive understanding of these contributory factors provides a foundation for optimizing therapeutic approaches.

Keywords

• anxiety
• chronic pain
• depression
• disability
• maladaptive cognitions