PSYCHOLOGICAL COMPONENT OF CHRONIC PAIN: CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND REHABILITATION OPPORTUNITIES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/3041-2005/2026-2.8Keywords:
chronic pain, psychological factors, pain catastrophizing, fear of movement, biopsychosocial model, cognitive behavioral therapy, rehabilitation, self-managementAbstract
Chronic pain is regarded as a complex, multifactorial phenomenon that represents a significant medical and socioeconomic challenge for modern healthcare systems. According to current estimates, more than 20 % of the adult population worldwide experience various forms of chronic pain, leading to a reduced quality of life, decreased functional capacity, and an increased risk of disability. This paper summarizes contemporary scientific approaches to understanding the role of psychological factors in the development and persistence of chronic pain syndrome. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of psychoemotional and cognitive-behavioral factors on the course of chronic pain and to determine their relevance for rehabilitation strategies. The study is based on the analysis of recent scientific publications indexed in international databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical studies published over the past decade. Methods of analysis, systematization and synthesis were applied. The findings indicate that psychological factors, including depression, anxiety, pain catastrophizing, and fear of movement, play a crucial role in pain chronicity, influencing pain intensity, functional impairment and treatment outcomes. Maladaptive cognitive-behavioral patterns and impaired emotional regulation contribute to the persistence of chronic pain. Particular attention is paid to the fear-avoidance model and pain catastrophizing as key mechanisms underlying pain chronicity. Current evidence supports the use of a biopsychosocial approach to rehabilitation integrating medical, psychological and physical interventions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions and selfmanagement programs have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain intensity and improving patients’ quality of life. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs appear to be the most effective strategy, as they target multiple mechanisms involved in chronic pain. Consideration of psychological factors is essential for effective management and rehabilitation of patients with chronic pain. The integration of psychological interventions into clinical practice contributes to improved functional outcomes and enhanced quality of life.
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