Chronic Pain Management for Physical Therapists

This multidisciplinary text helps distinguish between acute and chronic pain, and the resulting differences in approach and treatment. Clinical case studies and important resources for the physical therapist are provided, and insights given into effective management of patients with chronic pain.

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Reflecting state-of-the-art and current practice in chronic pain management for physical therapists, this innovative text stands out as the first published work to focus on this aspect of the field. The book makes a clear distinction between acute and chronic pain, describing in depth the differences in approach to chronic pain patients, including chronic pain syndrome patients. Cases illustrating the many syndromes of chronic pain---including headache, neck and back pain, and neuropathic pain states---are presented, and the importance of accurate documentation is stressed throughout. The book is multidisciplinary in scope, taking all aspects of treatment into consideration in patient assessment and goal setting. The anatomy and physiology of pain, pharmacology, anesthesia, and the behavioral approach to management are included among the topics covered. Prevention of disability, the significant role of the physical therapist in this, and the variety of different pain treatment facilities available are discussed in depth.
Written with the goal of improving the outcomes of chronic pain patients who rely on physical therapy, this book will prove invaluable to all health professionals involved with these patients.