Pain Management Protocol for Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease

Participants complete a manualized, single session of training which includes: (A) education about the causes of sickle cell pain, (B) education about how the nervous system processes pain signals, and (C) explanations of how one can use cognitive and behavioral treatment (CBT) strategies to decrease the extent of pain experienced (all based on how the nervous system processes pain). Four specific CBT skills are taught and practiced by the participant (Progressive muscle relaxation, Controlled Deep Breathing, Imagery, and Distraction). The protocol explicitly emphasizes the use of CBT as a complimentary pain management tool to use in addition to the standard of care methods.