According to the National Institutes of Health, Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the country [1]. Chronic pain is something that is common for those who have the condition, which impacts their quality of life. Of interest to some researchers is how those who have the condition perceive the pain experiences, and little research has been done on the topic. A new study has been published that sheds light on this topic, providing insight for those who have Parkinson’s disease and those who help provide care and case management for them.
The study, published in the October 2024 issue of Psychology, Health, and Medicine, explored the psychological variables associated with Parkinson’s disease and pain [2]. It considered the four dimensions of pain beliefs, which include mystery, pain permanence, pain constancy, and self-blame.
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There were 169 people who participated in the study. They all have Parkinson’s disease. They completed an online survey, sharing socio-demographic and medical data. The survey had them self-report their experience and thoughts to assess their pain, psychological distress, pain catastrophizing, and pain belief catastrophizing. The information was compiled and analyzed to see patterns and gather insight into what those with Parkinson’s disease believe about pain.
The goal of the study was to get participants to describe their pain beliefs and explore the relationship between beliefs and psychological variables. This method allowed them to gather information regarding the participants’ beliefs regarding pain, which represent their personal understanding of the pain that they experience.
What the survey information found is that those who have Parkinson’s tend to perceive their pain experience as chronic and enduring. This information suggests that they have little hope of having pain relief. This is unfortunate because pain constancy thoughts are believed to be associated with having more long-lasting pain. Having these thoughts may lead to a lower quality of life because they don’t feel things will be better and focus on the negative.
Researchers have known for some time that perceptions of pain can influence the intensity that people report feeling. A study published in 2008 in the journal Pain Research and Management reported that pain acceptance, which is the process of giving up the struggle and learning to live with the pain, is associated with lower levels of pain, disability, and psychological distress [3]. These studies can be helpful for those who are working with Parkinson’s patients and helping them with their pain management.
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This article was originally published on Confronting Chronic Pain by Dr. Steven Richeimer, Director Pain Medicine and Pain Science Certificates.
Sources:
- National Institutes of Health. Parkinson’s Disease: Challenges, Progress, and Promise.
- Psychology, Health, and Medicine. Pain beliefs and their relationship with pain, psychological distress, and catastrophizing in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. October 2024.
- Pain Research and Management. The meaning and process of pain acceptance. May 2008.
