Chapter 25 - The person with pain perspective and participation – an essential component of successfully managing chronic neuropathic pain

Summary

This chapter highlights the barriers impacting pain management, global effects of long-term pain, and novel approaches to engaging the necessary participation of the patients in their pain care, and identifies tools and resources that one can utilize and share with their clients. Health professionals, particularly doctors, are the first point of contact for someone dealing with pain and could likely have the unenviable task of informing the person that they are now living with chronic pain. Working with self-reporting and planning tools is valuable for several reasons. Individuals gain a greater understanding of their pain condition, how it affects their lives, and the coping strategies that are effective for them. Identifying reliable, evidence-based and easily accessible resources are essential for empowering all participants striving for successful pain management. Finally, the chapter presents a brief list of practice guidelines and professional organizations that provides support for health professionals.