Evaluation of Pain Neuroscience Education for Patients Who Experience Chronic Pain With Concurrent Opioid Dependence

Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) is a cognitive-based education intervention that aims to change pain beliefs in patients experiencing CMP. Researchers have found PNE beneficial in assisting patients to reframe their understanding, attitudes, thoughts, and beliefs regarding their pain experience. PNE directs patients to relate chronic pain to overly sensitive nerves rather than assumed tissue damage. Further, PNE encourages patients to perform daily activities, work, and function in society, all despite pain. This facilitates behavior changes that are key in amending a patient's biopsychosocial state. Multiple sources make a strong case for the incorporation of PNE in having positive effects on reducing physical disability and modulating fear and anxiety in patients with CMP. Researchers have established a positive influence of PNE toward decreased kinesiophobia and have demonstrated a relation between increased self-efficacy and increased functional ability.

General Health Education included: 20 Benefits of Walking 30 Minutes a Day; Why You Should Quit: Smoking Cessation; Heat vs. Cold: How to Use it For Pain Control; Sleep Hygiene.