Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

0000000000000910

Journal:

J Head Trauma Rehabil

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

, 39, 1, 5-17

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of chronic pain after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and identify characteristics that differ from those without chronic pain.

Design

A multisite, cross-sectional observational cohort study.

Results

46% reported current chronic pain, 14% reported past (post-injury) chronic pain, and 40% reported no chronic pain. Bivariate differences in sociodemographic and injury characteristics between the 3 pain groups were generally small in effect size, reflecting little clinical difference. However, medium effect sizes were seen for all functional outcomes, such that individuals with current chronic pain had worse functional outcomes compared with individuals in the past pain or no pain groups. Treatment utilization rates were higher for individuals with current chronic pain compared with past pain, with medical treatments being most frequently utilized. Individuals with past pain perceived more improvement with treatment than did those with current chronic pain as represented by a large effect size.

Conclusions

Chronic pain affects approximately 60% of those living with TBI. The implications of chronic pain for functional outcomes support inclusion of pain metrics in prognostic models and observational studies in this population. Future research is needed to proactively identify those at risk for the development of chronic pain and determine the efficacy and access to pain treatment.

Author(s):

Cynthia Harrison-Felix, Mitch Sevigny, Cynthia L. Beaulieu, Librada Callender, Kristen Dams-O’Connor, Flora M. Hammond, Robin Hanks, Jessica M. Ketchum, Aaron M. Martin, Jennifer H. Marwitz, Mackenzie Peckham, Amanda R. Rabinowitz, Angelle M. Sander, Ally Sterling, William C. Walker, Risa Nakase-Richardson, Jeanne M. Hoffman

Participating Centers: