JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

The aim of this research was to design a Health Education Program (HEP) with a biopsychosocial approach aimed at patients with Chronic Cervical Pain (CCP). A literature search on chronic neck pain, health education and biopsychosocial models was carried out. Seven physiotherapists with expertise in HEP and chornic pain participated in three teams who evaluated the literature and prepared a synthesis document in relation to the three target topics. Experts compiled the information obtained and prepared a proposal for HEP with a Biopsychosocial approach aimed at patients with CCP. This proposal was tested in the Physiotherapy Units of Primary Care health centers belonging to East Assistance Directorate of Madrid, and suggestions were included in the final program.

Results:

HEP for CCP with a biopsychosocial approach consists of five educational sessions lasting between 90 and 120 minutes, carried out every other day. Cognitive, emotional and physical dimensions were addressed in all session. The approach to CCP, requires attention to associated psychosocial factors of people who suffer from it. The proposed HEP with a biopsychosocial approach emphasizes emotions management, especially stress, without neglecting the importance of physical and recreational exercise for the return to social participation of the person. The objective of this program is to achieve a clinically relevant decrease in the intensity of perceived pain, in functional disability and an increase in quality of life in short and medium term.