Interdisciplinary Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pain: The EMPOWER Program

Issue title: Pain and Disability: The Multi-Million Dollar Problem

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Wells, Mary J.^{; 1} | Peay, Alice

Affiliations: Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, VA

Note: [1] Acknowledgements: The following individuals have significant input into the original conceptualization and development of the EMPOWER Program: Kellie Schindel, MA; Roy Clymer, Ph.D; Rhonda Jones, PT; Connie Cerny, RN; Lorenz Ng, M.D. Their input and encouragement were invaluable in the initial development of this program. Karen Drilling made valuable contributions in the editing of this text for publication.

Abstract: Many individuals who experience chronic pain are able to return to work in some capacity but continue to suffer from ongoing pain problems resulting in increased absenteeism and reduced productivity on the job. These individuals continue to require ongoing medical interventions. Monthly follow-up visits to a physician rarely provide effective treatment strategies that patients can use at home. The challenge is to develop an effective and inexpensive treatment program that will assist patients in regaining or maintaining employment and decrease reliance on health care facilities. A program of this type has been developed for chronic pain sufferers, primarily those with low back and cervical spine pain. The treatment is a six-week interdisciplinary program including relaxation training, gradually increasing exercise, and significant education on behavioral and exercise strategies and nutrition for long-term pain management. This program is inexpensive, cost efficient, and may be implemented easily in a variety of settings.

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1993-3107

Journal: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 54-63, 1993