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Chronic Pain

Occupational Therapy Interventions for Chronic Pain

Hugging a Pillow

Functional Assessments

  • Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) - Client-centered assessment identifying pain-affected activities and satisfaction levels

  • Pain Disability Index (PDI) - Evaluation of pain interference across major life domains

  • Activity Configuration Assessment - Analysis of daily routine and activity patterns influenced by pain

  • Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) - Standardized testing of physical abilities and limitations related to work tasks

  • Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) - Assessment of pain severity and functional interference

  • Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) - Measuring negative thought patterns about pain that affect function

  • Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) - Evaluating confidence in performing activities despite pain

  • Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) - Assessing fear of movement and activity avoidance

  • Occupational Performance Inventory of Pain (OPIP) - Measuring impact of pain on specific daily activities

  • Functional Reach Test - Assessing balance and stability during functional movements

  • Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test - Evaluating fine motor function for hand-related tasks

  • Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) - Observational assessment of functional performance quality

 

Functional Interventions

  • Activity Pacing - Structured approach to balance activity and rest to optimize function

  • Energy Conservation Techniques - Methods to accomplish tasks with reduced physical strain

  • Ergonomic Modifications - Workplace and home adaptations to reduce pain-provoking positions

  • Body Mechanics Training - Education on proper positioning for daily tasks to minimize pain

  • Assistive Device Prescription - Recommending and training in tools that reduce physical strain

  • Compensatory Strategy Training - Alternative methods to complete meaningful activities

  • Graded Activity Programs - Systematically increasing activity tolerance through progressive challenges

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Approaches - Addressing thought patterns that limit functional engagement

  • Routine Restructuring - Reorganizing daily schedules to prioritize meaningful activities with pain management

  • Environmental Modifications - Adapting home and work environments to support function

  • Sleep Hygiene Training - Establishing healthy sleep routines to improve pain management and daytime function

  • Desensitization Programs - Gradually reintroducing avoided activities to reduce fear-based limitations

  • Adaptive Equipment Training - Instruction in using tools that facilitate independence

  • Sensory Modulation Techniques - Strategies to manage pain through sensory-based approaches

  • Joint Protection Principles - Methods to perform activities while minimizing joint stress

  • Mindfulness-Based Activity - Integrating present-moment awareness into daily tasks

  • Return-to-Work Planning - Structured approach to resume employment with accommodations

  • Leisure Adaptation - Modifying recreational activities to enable continued participation

  • Role Reestablishment - Supporting reengagement in valued life roles affected by chronic pain

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