RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Evaluation of a cognitive behavioural programme for rehabilitating patients with chronic pain. JF British Journal of General Practice JO Br J Gen Pract FD British Journal of General Practice SP 513 OP 518 VO 43 IS 377 A1 A C Williams A1 M K Nicholas A1 P H Richardson A1 C E Pither A1 D M Justins A1 J H Chamberlain A1 V R Harding A1 J A Ralphs A1 S C Jones A1 I Dieudonné YR 1993 UL http://bjgp.org/content/43/377/513.abstract AB The aim of this prospective longitudinal study was to evaluate an inpatient cognitive behavioural pain management programme for patients with chronic pain. A physical and psychological assessment of patients was carried out before and after treatment, and at one and six months follow up. A total of 212 patients with disabling chronic pain of mean duration 10.5 years, for whom no further medical or psychiatric treatment was appropriate or available, were admitted; their mean age was 50 years and 65% were women. The four week programme was delivered by a multidisciplinary team of two psychologists, a physiotherapist, nurse, occupational therapist and anaesthetist. The main components of therapy included: education, teaching behavioural and cognitive skills, a stretch and exercise programme, medication reduction, goal setting and pacing, and relaxation training. Outcome measures assessed quality of life, physical performance (for example walking speed), pain intensity and distress, depression severity and confidence. Assessment immediately after treatment revealed significant improvements on all measures. Improvements were well maintained at six month follow up. Cognitive behavioural treatment can be of value in improving the day-to-day functioning and quality of life of patients with chronic pain for whom conventional medical treatments have apparently failed.