The role and function of acceptance and commitment therapy and behavioral flexibility in pain management

Written by Rikard K Wicksell & Kevin E Vowles

Despite recent advances, the high prevalence and debilitating effects of chronic pain remains [1]. Pharmacological and surgical strategies are often insufficient in alleviating symptoms or increasing functioning [2]. Although pain tends to significantly interfere with activities across multiple domains (e.g., vocational, social, physical), traditional pain management has to an important extent focused on reducing pain and distress, leaving pain interference as a somewhat neglected dimension. However, pain interference has historically been a key target for behavioral interventions [3], and recent research supports the notion that pain interference is critical for daily functioning and future health [4]. Click here to view the full article

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